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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to put down two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

In a online announcement, the establishment indicated 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 landowner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the director noted.

In a recent statement, the park announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the director stated.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or humane option” due to their age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were flooded with responses from members of the public, pleading for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The manager noted that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request kindness and courtesy as we navigate this tragic predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to euthanise the big cats lay with the owners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A deputy director stated that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to confirm this is done correctly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

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

The facility repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.