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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media update, the facility explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial financial backing,” the operator explained.

In a subsequent update, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator stated.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from the community, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed hope that the sanctuary would review the course of action to euthanise them.

The operator mentioned that among the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for kindness and decency as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the choice to euthanise the cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A senior official explained that humane killing had to be performed ethically, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and security obligations.”

The park gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility frequently experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.