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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to put down two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media post, the facility indicated 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 challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are devastated,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial monetary input,” the director explained.

In a recent announcement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed hope that the park would review the decision to end their lives.

The operator noted that amid the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered threatening and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and decency as we manage this devastating situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to humanely kill the lions was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A senior official explained that putting down had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to confirm this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and containment requirements.”

The park gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently encountered economic issues and employment issues, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.