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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to put down two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media update, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of 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 employees and I are heartbroken,” commented the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial financial backing,” the director noted.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the operator stated.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. Even though the window is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the sanctuary would rethink the plan to put them down.

The manager mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The regulatory body indicated that the determination to put down the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and enclosure obligations.”

The park gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary often encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.