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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a online post, the establishment indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are devastated,” commented the park’s director.

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial financial backing,” the operator added.

In a recent update, the park verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the establishment and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or compassionate alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the park would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The director mentioned that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to menacing and abusive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we handle this devastating situation.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the determination to humanely kill the big cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be performed ethically, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be present to confirm this is done properly,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure responsibilities.”

The facility attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park often experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.