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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 remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility 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 landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are heartbroken,” commented the facility’s manager.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but significant monetary input,” the director noted.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These actions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane option” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed desire that the facility would review the course of action to euthanise them.

The manager stated that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and abusive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request kindness and courtesy as we navigate this tragic situation.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The government department stated that the determination to euthanise the big cats lay with the owners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A deputy director commented that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and security requirements.”

The park gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary frequently encountered financial trouble and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.