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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media update, the facility clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable capital investment,” the operator added.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were declining. These actions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or compassionate option” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The director noted that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we request compassion and respect as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to euthanise the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to confirm this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

The park gained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly ran into economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.