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

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are devastated,” said the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant monetary input,” the operator added.

In a subsequent statement, the park verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager said.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in buying the establishment and providing for the lions. Even though the window is short and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or humane choice” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the facility would rethink the plan to put them down.

The director noted that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we ask for compassion and decency as we manage this devastating situation.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The government department stated that the choice to put down the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A high-ranking officer stated that putting down had to be performed ethically, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure obligations.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.