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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media update, the facility clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the manager added.

In a later update, the park verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were declining. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the director stated.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with responses from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The manager stated that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received menacing and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and decency as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the decision to put down the big cats lay with the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director stated that humane killing had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park frequently encountered financial trouble and staffing problems, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to shut down until the facilities were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.