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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

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

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” commented the park’s director.

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable capital investment,” the director added.

In a recent announcement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director stated.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or compassionate option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from the community, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the sanctuary would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The director stated that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered hostile and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we request kindness and courtesy as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department indicated that the decision to euthanise the cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A senior official commented that euthanasia had to be carried out humanely, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility often ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the establishment to close until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.