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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a online post, 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 euthanised “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the operator noted.

In a recent statement, the park announced 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 incurable and were worsening. These decisions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the operator said.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or humane choice” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with responses from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the park would review the plan to put them down.

The manager noted that alongside the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered threatening and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that passions are strong, but we ask for consideration and decency as we handle this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The government department stated that the determination to put down the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A senior official stated that humane killing had to be performed ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are confident that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and containment requirements.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park frequently encountered economic issues and employment issues, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.