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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are heartbroken,” said the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial capital investment,” the director noted.

In a later statement, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the director stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in acquiring the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is tight and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from the community, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the facility would review the plan to put them down.

The operator noted that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and insulting remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that passions are strong, but we ask for kindness and decency as we handle this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to put down the lions was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A high-ranking officer explained that humane killing had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to verify this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are confident that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park frequently ran into monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the facility to close until the enclosures were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.