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

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a online post, the facility clarified 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 “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are heartbroken,” said the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but significant monetary input,” the operator explained.

In a later update, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in purchasing the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or ethical alternative” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed desire that the park would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The director stated that alongside the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we request kindness and decency as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the choice to put down the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that humane killing had to be performed humanely, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be onsite to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

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

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the park to close until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.