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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a online update, the facility 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 put down “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are heartbroken,” said the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial capital investment,” the director explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the operator said.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the deadline is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location 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 messages from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The director stated that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and insulting messages.

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

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the determination to euthanise the lions lay with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A senior official explained that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility repeatedly experienced economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to close until the facilities were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.