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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online post, the establishment clarified 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 euthanised “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable financial backing,” the operator added.

In a recent announcement, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the director said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from the community, begging for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the park would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The operator noted that alongside the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and respect as we handle this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the choice to humanely kill the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official commented that euthanasia had to be performed humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to confirm this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its wildlife protection and containment obligations.”

The facility achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

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

The facility often encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to close until the habitats were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.