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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

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

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial financial backing,” the manager noted.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from the community, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed desire that the facility would review the decision to put them down.

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

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for kindness and respect as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to put down the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A deputy director stated that euthanasia had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and enclosure obligations.”

The park attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it appeared on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently ran into monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.