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

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online update, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant monetary input,” the operator explained.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The manager noted that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that passions are strong, but we request consideration and courtesy as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The government department stated that the determination to humanely kill the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A senior official explained that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done correctly,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and containment requirements.”

The park gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park often experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to shut down until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.