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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

In a online post, the establishment indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are devastated,” said the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but significant financial backing,” the manager noted.

In a subsequent statement, the sanctuary confirmed 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 choices were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the operator said.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or humane option” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The manager noted that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered threatening and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request kindness and respect as we manage this devastating predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to euthanise the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be performed humanely, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and enclosure responsibilities.”

The facility achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to shut down until the habitats were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.