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

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

In a online post, the facility clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are devastated,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but significant capital investment,” the director noted.

In a recent update, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or compassionate alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The manager stated that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request kindness and courtesy as we navigate this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body clarified that the determination to euthanise the big cats lay with the owners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A deputy director commented that humane killing had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to confirm this is done correctly,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure responsibilities.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park frequently encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to close until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.