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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to euthanise two of its older lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media announcement, 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 challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant capital investment,” the operator explained.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is limited and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to explore this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the park would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The manager mentioned that among the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered threatening and offensive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for compassion and decency as we navigate this tragic situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the determination to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

The facility achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility often ran into financial trouble and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.