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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online update, the facility explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial capital investment,” the director explained.

In a later statement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the director said.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or compassionate alternative” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from the community, requesting a reprieve for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the course of action to put them down.

The manager stated that alongside the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to euthanise the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to verify this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its wildlife protection and enclosure requirements.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility repeatedly encountered financial trouble and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.