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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to put down two of its older lions, with the fate of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a online update, the facility indicated that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are heartbroken,” said the facility’s manager.

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant monetary input,” the manager added.

In a subsequent update, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager said.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have shown interest in buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is short and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from members of the public, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The operator stated that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received menacing and abusive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and respect as we navigate this tragic situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department stated that the determination to humanely kill the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A senior official commented that humane killing had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to confirm this is done properly,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary repeatedly experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.