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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media post, the establishment indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are devastated,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the director added.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were declining. These actions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the director said.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. While the window is limited and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or compassionate alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the park would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The operator mentioned that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and abusive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we handle this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to humanely kill the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment requirements.”

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

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

The sanctuary frequently ran into financial trouble and staffing problems, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to close until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.