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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a online update, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had put the property 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.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial financial backing,” the manager explained.

In a recent update, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane option” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from members of the public, begging for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would review the course of action to end their lives.

The manager stated that amid the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and abusive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we manage this devastating situation.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to humanely kill the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be conducted humanely, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done properly,” the representative stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The park attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently ran into financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.