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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online update, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are heartbroken,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable financial backing,” the director explained.

In a subsequent statement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and keep hope alive.”

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

The park’s announcements were filled with responses from members of the public, begging for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The manager noted that amid the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and offensive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and respect as we manage this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to put down the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and security responsibilities.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility repeatedly ran into economic issues and employment issues, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the park to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.