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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to put down two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

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

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are heartbroken,” said the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial capital investment,” the manager explained.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager said.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

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

The facility’s posts were flooded with messages from members of the public, pleading for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and insulting remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to put down the lions lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be conducted ethically, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are confident that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure obligations.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently encountered economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.