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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 outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a online update, the establishment explained that its owner 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 property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant capital investment,” the operator added.

In a subsequent statement, the park announced 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 not treatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The director stated that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and abusive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that passions are strong, but we ask for compassion and respect as we navigate this tragic situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the determination to put down the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be conducted humanely, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to confirm this is done properly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to meet its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

The park attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park often experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.