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

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are devastated,” said the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable capital investment,” the manager added.

In a recent statement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator said.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is short and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to explore this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or compassionate option” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with responses from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The manager noted that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request consideration and respect as we manage this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to euthanise the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer explained that humane killing had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be onsite to confirm this is done properly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and security requirements.”

The park attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park often encountered economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.