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

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

In a social media post, the facility clarified 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 “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are heartbroken,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial capital investment,” the manager added.

In a later announcement, the facility 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 declining. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the deadline is tight and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The director stated that amid the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and respect as we navigate this devastating predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the choice to put down the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done correctly,” the official stated. “We are confident that the establishment continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment responsibilities.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.