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

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility 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 euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are devastated,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable capital investment,” the manager added.

In a later update, the park verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator said.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or humane option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, begging for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the park would review the plan to euthanise them.

The manager noted that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and decency as we manage this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to put down the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A senior official explained that humane killing had to be conducted ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the official stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure obligations.”

The facility gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park repeatedly ran into financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.