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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to put down two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media update, the establishment 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 “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial financial backing,” the manager added.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator said.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical choice” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with comments from the community, pleading for a second chance for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The operator noted that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we navigate this tragic predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the determination to euthanise the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A high-ranking officer stated that putting down had to be conducted ethically, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to confirm this is done properly,” the representative stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility repeatedly encountered financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to shut down until the facilities were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.