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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a online post, 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 “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial financial backing,” the manager added.

In a recent statement, the park verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager stated.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

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

The facility’s posts were flooded with messages from members of the public, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would review the plan to end their lives.

The director mentioned that among the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and insulting comments.

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

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the determination to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official explained that humane killing had to be performed ethically, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its wildlife protection and enclosure requirements.”

The facility attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary often encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to shut down until the habitats were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.