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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment indicated 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 landowner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable financial backing,” the manager added.

In a subsequent announcement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager said.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that among the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We understand that passions are strong, but we ask for kindness and decency as we handle this devastating situation.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to euthanise the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment obligations.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary often experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to shut down until the facilities were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.