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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media post, the facility indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial financial backing,” the director added.

In a later announcement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the operator said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate choice” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were flooded with comments from the community, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the plan to put them down.

The operator mentioned that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and insulting remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and respect as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department stated that the determination to euthanise the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A high-ranking officer stated that euthanasia had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to confirm this is done properly,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary often encountered financial trouble and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the park to close until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.