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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online announcement, 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 challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are heartbroken,” commented the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but significant financial backing,” the director noted.

In a subsequent statement, the park announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the manager remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to investigate this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the park would review the course of action to euthanise them.

The director noted that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and abusive messages.

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

The proprietor declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to put down the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

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

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are confident that the facility continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment responsibilities.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary repeatedly ran into economic issues and employment issues, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to shut down until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.