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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

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

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial financial backing,” the manager explained.

In a recent announcement, the park announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the manager said.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

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

The facility’s posts were flooded with responses from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would review the decision to put them down.

The director mentioned that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that passions are strong, but we request kindness and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to euthanise the big cats lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and security requirements.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.