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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

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

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are heartbroken,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but significant capital investment,” the director added.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the director said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical choice” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were filled with messages from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The operator stated that among the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to threatening and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and respect as we manage this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the choice to put down the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be carried out humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to meet its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park often experienced economic issues and staffing problems, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.