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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media update, the facility clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are heartbroken,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the operator added.

In a later statement, the facility 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 deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane option” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, begging for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the park would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The director mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and decency as we manage this devastating situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department clarified that the decision to humanely kill the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done properly,” the official said. “We are assured that the facility continues to meet its animal welfare and enclosure obligations.”

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

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park frequently ran into economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.