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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a online announcement, the establishment 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 put down “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial monetary input,” the director explained.

In a later update, the facility announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager said.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or humane option” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from members of the public, pleading for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the park would rethink the decision to put them down.

The manager mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to threatening and abusive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we ask for kindness and respect as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to humanely kill the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be performed humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are confident that the facility continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment requirements.”

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

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility often encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.