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

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial monetary input,” the manager added.

In a recent update, the park announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager stated.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or compassionate option” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

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

The director noted that among the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered threatening and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department indicated that the determination to put down the lions lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and enclosure requirements.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to close until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.