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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial monetary input,” the director added.

In a subsequent announcement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

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

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical choice” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from the community, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The manager noted that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered threatening and insulting remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

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

“An compliance official will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The facility attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility frequently encountered economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.