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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

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

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are heartbroken,” stated the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the director explained.

In a subsequent update, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the manager stated.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from the community, pleading for a second chance for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The director noted that alongside the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for consideration and courtesy as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A high-ranking officer stated that putting down had to be conducted humanely, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary often experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.