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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to put down 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 city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a online update, the facility indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable capital investment,” the operator noted.

In a later update, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director said.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would review the decision to put them down.

The director stated that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request compassion and courtesy as we manage this tragic situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the choice to euthanise the cats lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and containment responsibilities.”

The facility attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly ran into economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.