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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media announcement, the facility 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 “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are heartbroken,” stated the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial monetary input,” the director explained.

In a subsequent update, the park verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the manager said.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or ethical choice” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The operator mentioned that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and abusive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for compassion and decency as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department stated that the determination to put down the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility often experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to cease operations until the habitats were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.