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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a online post, the facility explained 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 put down “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are devastated,” stated the facility’s manager.

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the operator added.

In a subsequent statement, the park verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is short and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or compassionate option” due to their age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The director noted that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and decency as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

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

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to confirm this is done correctly,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and containment obligations.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.