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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online announcement, the facility explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are deeply saddened,” stated the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable capital investment,” the manager noted.

In a subsequent statement, the park announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is short and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the park would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The operator mentioned that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered threatening and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and respect as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to put down the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A deputy director stated that humane killing had to be performed compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to verify this is done properly,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park repeatedly ran into monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.