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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

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

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

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but significant financial backing,” the operator noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator said.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with responses from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the course of action to put them down.

The director stated that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request consideration and respect as we handle this heartbreaking predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to euthanise the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be carried out humanely, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the official stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility often ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.