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

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

In a social media announcement, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are heartbroken,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but significant financial backing,” the operator added.

In a subsequent announcement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director stated.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or compassionate choice” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, begging for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the park would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The director noted that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to menacing and insulting remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we handle this heartbreaking predicament.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to humanely kill the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done properly,” the spokesperson said. “We are confident that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and containment requirements.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park frequently ran into monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.