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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media update, the establishment 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 euthanised “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable monetary input,” the director added.

In a subsequent update, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is tight and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or humane option” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were filled with responses from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for consideration and courtesy as we manage this devastating circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the choice to humanely kill the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be performed compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to verify this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and enclosure requirements.”

The facility attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park often encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to shut down until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.