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

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media update, the facility clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable capital investment,” the operator noted.

In a later statement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager remarked.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from the community, begging for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the park would review the plan to put them down.

The operator noted that amid the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered threatening and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request compassion and respect as we manage this heartbreaking predicament.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the determination to put down the big cats lay with the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

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

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility repeatedly ran into economic issues and staffing problems, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.