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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a online announcement, 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 “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” said the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the operator noted.

In a later statement, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the director remarked.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or compassionate choice” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were flooded with comments from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The director mentioned that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered threatening and insulting comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request consideration and decency as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the decision to humanely kill the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be performed compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done properly,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment responsibilities.”

The park gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility frequently encountered economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to close until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.