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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment clarified that its owner 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 “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are devastated,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the operator noted.

In a subsequent announcement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate choice” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with responses from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would rethink the decision to put them down.

The director mentioned that among the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking predicament.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to humanely kill the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be carried out humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary often experienced economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the park to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.