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

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

In a online update, the establishment 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 euthanised “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable financial backing,” the operator added.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the director said.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate choice” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

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

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and decency as we navigate this tragic situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to humanely kill the cats lay with the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A senior official stated that humane killing had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to confirm this is done properly,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The park achieved a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often ran into monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.