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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are heartbroken,” stated the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant capital investment,” the manager explained.

In a recent announcement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were worsening. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or humane choice” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the course of action to put them down.

The director stated that among the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered menacing and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and respect as we manage this tragic situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the choice to humanely kill the big cats lay with the owners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A high-ranking officer explained that humane killing had to be performed ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park often encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to shut down until the habitats were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.