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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment explained that its proprietor 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 tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but significant monetary input,” the operator explained.

In a recent announcement, the park verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or humane option” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The operator stated that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and decency as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to euthanise the big cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary often experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.