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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online update, the facility explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are heartbroken,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial monetary input,” the director noted.

In a later update, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the director remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have shown interest in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the facility would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The operator stated that amid the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered threatening and insulting remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to put down the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A senior official explained that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure obligations.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary often encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.