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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced 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 privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are heartbroken,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable capital investment,” the director added.

In a subsequent announcement, the sanctuary 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 not treatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator stated.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from the community, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the park would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The manager noted that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request compassion and decency as we navigate this tragic predicament.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department clarified that the choice to humanely kill the big cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that humane killing had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and enclosure requirements.”

The park achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility repeatedly encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to close until the enclosures were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.