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

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment indicated that its owner had listed the land 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.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but significant capital investment,” the operator explained.

In a later statement, the park verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate choice” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The manager stated that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and respect as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the determination to humanely kill the big cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that humane killing had to be performed humanely, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and containment requirements.”

The park gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently ran into monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.