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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media post, the establishment explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the operator explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the manager said.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is short and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and keep hope alive.”

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

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from the community, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the facility would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The manager mentioned that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and abusive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for compassion and decency as we navigate this devastating predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body clarified that the determination to humanely kill the lions was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that humane killing had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary often encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.