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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to put down two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media post, the facility indicated that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial financial backing,” the manager added.

In a recent statement, the facility announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager said.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or ethical alternative” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would review the plan to end their lives.

The director stated that among the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we handle this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to put down the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A deputy director stated that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be present to confirm this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility often ran into economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the facility to shut down until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.