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

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

In a online update, the facility indicated that its owner 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 tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are deeply saddened,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant monetary input,” the director noted.

In a recent announcement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director said.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with responses from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the park would rethink the decision to put them down.

The director mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to threatening and abusive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and respect as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department clarified that the determination to humanely kill the lions was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are confident that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and enclosure requirements.”

The park gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

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

The facility frequently experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to close until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.