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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online post, the establishment clarified 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 landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are heartbroken,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but significant capital investment,” the director noted.

In a subsequent update, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or compassionate alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from members of the public, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the park would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The manager noted that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and abusive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request consideration and courtesy as we handle this tragic situation.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the determination to put down the cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A senior official commented that humane killing had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done properly,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The park attained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it appeared on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to close until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.