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

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial monetary input,” the director explained.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the director said.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the deadline is limited and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the park would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The director noted that amid the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and offensive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and respect as we manage this heartbreaking predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to euthanise the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are assured that the facility continues to meet its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The sanctuary attained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary repeatedly encountered financial trouble and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.