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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online post, the facility indicated 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 euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant monetary input,” the operator explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” 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 several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or compassionate option” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were filled with responses from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The manager stated that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and abusive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we appeal for consideration and courtesy as we manage this devastating predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that humane killing had to be performed humanely, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to confirm this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure responsibilities.”

The facility attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it featured on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility frequently experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to close until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.