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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to put down two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the facility explained that its proprietor 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 “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial capital investment,” the operator explained.

In a recent statement, the park announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or compassionate choice” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The manager noted that amid the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and respect as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the choice to put down the lions was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A deputy director stated that humane killing had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done properly,” the official noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and enclosure obligations.”

The sanctuary achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary repeatedly ran into monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to shut down until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.