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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media announcement, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are heartbroken,” stated the park’s director.

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial capital investment,” the operator added.

In a subsequent announcement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to investigate this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical choice” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the facility would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The director stated that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered menacing and insulting remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for compassion and decency as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the determination to humanely kill the lions was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be onsite to confirm this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and enclosure obligations.”

The facility attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the facility to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.