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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to put down two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

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

“There were no real options left. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable financial backing,” the operator noted.

In a later statement, the sanctuary confirmed 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 untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with responses from members of the public, requesting a reprieve for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The manager noted that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered menacing and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we navigate this tragic predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department clarified that the decision to euthanise the cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A deputy director stated that humane killing had to be performed compassionately, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

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

The park repeatedly ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.