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

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past 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 put down “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are deeply saddened,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the operator noted.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the manager remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from the community, begging for a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The director noted that amid the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also received menacing and insulting remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we appeal for kindness and respect as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the determination to euthanise the big cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be performed humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and enclosure obligations.”

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

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

The facility frequently encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the park to shut down until the habitats were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.