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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online announcement, the facility clarified that its owner 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 tough decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the manager explained.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator stated.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

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

The facility’s posts were filled with responses from the community, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The operator stated that among the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for compassion and respect as we handle this devastating circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the choice to put down the lions was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to close until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.