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

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

In a social media update, the facility explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are devastated,” said the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial financial backing,” the operator explained.

In a subsequent update, the facility announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the director stated.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and providing for the lions. While the window is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or compassionate option” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed hope that the park would rethink the plan to put them down.

The director noted that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we manage this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the choice to euthanise the cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A deputy director stated that humane killing had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to meet its animal care and containment requirements.”

The park attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.