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

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are heartbroken,” commented the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable financial backing,” the manager added.

In a subsequent update, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all we can to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical alternative” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The operator mentioned that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and abusive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and decency as we navigate this tragic situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body clarified that the choice to put down the cats lay with the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A senior official commented that humane killing had to be performed compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be present to confirm this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to meet its animal care and enclosure obligations.”

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

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary frequently experienced economic issues and employment issues, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency instructed the facility to close until the enclosures were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.