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A beleaguered 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 unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online post, 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 “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial capital investment,” the operator noted.

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

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

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or humane choice” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were filled with responses from members of the public, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the decision to end their lives.

The director stated that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request kindness and decency as we manage this devastating predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the determination to euthanise the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer explained that humane killing had to be performed ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be onsite to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility often experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency instructed the facility to shut down until the habitats were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.