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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to put down two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online post, the establishment clarified that its proprietor 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 tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are deeply saddened,” commented the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable financial backing,” the operator noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were flooded with comments from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The manager noted that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and insulting remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and respect as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the determination to put down the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A deputy director commented that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to verify this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are confident that the facility continues to meet its animal care and security obligations.”

The park attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility often experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.