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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

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

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are devastated,” commented the park’s director.

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial capital investment,” the manager noted.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the manager said.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or humane option” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were flooded with responses from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would review the plan to put them down.

The manager stated that amid the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the choice to euthanise the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done properly,” the representative stated. “We are confident that the establishment continues to meet its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary often ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.