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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to put down two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media update, the facility explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial capital investment,” the manager added.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A several interested parties have shown interest in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request consideration and courtesy as we navigate this tragic situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body indicated that the choice to put down the lions was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

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

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary frequently experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to shut down until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.