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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment clarified that its owner had listed the land 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 team and I are devastated,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial capital investment,” the operator noted.

In a later statement, the park verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the establishment and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or compassionate option” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the park would rethink the plan to put them down.

The operator stated that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to threatening and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we request kindness and decency as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the determination to euthanise the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility often experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.