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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

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

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

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are heartbroken,” said the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable capital investment,” the manager explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the operator said.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would rethink the plan to put them down.

The manager stated that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and insulting remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and respect as we navigate this devastating predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to put down the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park often ran into monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to close until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.