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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a online update, the facility clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are heartbroken,” stated the park’s director.

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial financial backing,” the manager explained.

In a recent statement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the director remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with responses from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The operator mentioned that amid the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to menacing and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and decency as we navigate this heartbreaking predicament.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the determination to humanely kill the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

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

“An compliance official will be onsite to verify this is done correctly,” the official stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

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

The park often encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to close until the facilities were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.