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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to euthanise two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media announcement, the establishment explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are heartbroken,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but significant financial backing,” the manager explained.

In a recent update, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager said.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is limited and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical choice” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that alongside the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for consideration and decency as we handle this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to put down the lions was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be performed ethically, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility often encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to shut down until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.