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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to put down two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media update, the establishment indicated 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 put down “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” said the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but significant monetary input,” the operator explained.

In a recent announcement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from the community, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the park would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The manager noted that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered menacing and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we manage this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The government department stated that the decision to put down the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be on location to confirm this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and containment obligations.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

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

The sanctuary often experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the facility to close until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.