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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a online post, the facility explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but significant capital investment,” the manager noted.

In a subsequent update, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were declining. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in acquiring the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is limited and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or compassionate option” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from concerned citizens, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would rethink the plan to put them down.

The manager mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received menacing and abusive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we handle this devastating circumstance.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to euthanise the cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be conducted humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to meet its wildlife protection and containment requirements.”

The park gained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it appeared on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility repeatedly encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the facility to close until the facilities were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.