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

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

In a online announcement, the facility explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the manager explained.

In a later announcement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were worsening. These actions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the manager said.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the establishment and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is limited and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane option” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from the community, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The director stated that among the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and insulting messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and courtesy as we manage this tragic situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the determination to euthanise the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A senior official stated that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park often encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to shut down until the habitats were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.