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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media update, the establishment 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 “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial monetary input,” the manager added.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to investigate this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or compassionate option” due to their age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The director mentioned that alongside the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and insulting remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that passions are strong, but we ask for kindness and respect as we manage this tragic situation.”

The property owner 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 notified of the course of action.

A senior official stated that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and enclosure responsibilities.”

The park gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility often experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to cease operations until the habitats were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.