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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility clarified 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 euthanised “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are deeply saddened,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but significant monetary input,” the operator added.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager stated.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the property and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were flooded with comments from the community, begging for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the course of action to put them down.

The director mentioned that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received menacing and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we manage this devastating situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the decision to put down the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be conducted humanely, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to confirm this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the park to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.