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

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

In a social media update, the facility clarified that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the manager explained.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager said.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. Although the window is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or compassionate alternative” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with responses from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the park would review the plan to end their lives.

The director mentioned that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered threatening and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we appeal for kindness and respect as we handle this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The regulatory body indicated that the choice to euthanise the big cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to confirm this is done correctly,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the facility continues to meet its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park repeatedly ran into financial trouble and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to cease operations until the facilities were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.