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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but significant capital investment,” the director added.

In a recent statement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager said.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in acquiring the property and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the deadline is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or compassionate option” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from the community, begging for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the facility would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The operator mentioned that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we manage this devastating circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department stated that the choice to put down the big cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done properly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and enclosure responsibilities.”

The park gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park often ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.