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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media update, the establishment explained 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 property owner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable monetary input,” the director explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These actions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the manager stated.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or compassionate alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would review the plan to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and insulting messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and respect as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to put down the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

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

“An regulatory officer will be on location to confirm this is done correctly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to meet its animal care and security requirements.”

The park attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility often experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.