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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media update, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are heartbroken,” said the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the manager added.

In a later announcement, the sanctuary verified 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 incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager said.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. While the deadline is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were flooded with responses from the community, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the park would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The manager stated that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we handle this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the determination to put down the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A high-ranking officer stated that putting down had to be carried out humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to close until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.