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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are heartbroken,” said the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial monetary input,” the operator added.

In a recent update, the sanctuary verified 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 not treatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator stated.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or compassionate alternative” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the decision to put them down.

The operator mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and abusive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we request consideration and courtesy as we manage this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the choice to put down the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary attained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park often ran into economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency instructed the facility to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.