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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to put down two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a online update, the facility explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable financial backing,” the operator noted.

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

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

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with responses from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The operator mentioned that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we request kindness and courtesy as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department stated that the decision to humanely kill the big cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director commented that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to confirm this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The park attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

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

The park repeatedly experienced economic issues and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.