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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a online post, the facility explained 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 difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the director added.

In a subsequent announcement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A several interested parties have shown interest in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the timeframe is short and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or compassionate choice” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with responses from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The director stated that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered menacing and abusive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and decency as we navigate this devastating predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department stated that the decision to humanely kill the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer explained that humane killing had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and enclosure obligations.”

The park attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

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

The park repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to shut down until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.