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

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors 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, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are heartbroken,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable capital investment,” the operator explained.

In a later statement, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager stated.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from the community, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the park would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The operator mentioned that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we ask for kindness and respect as we manage this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department stated that the choice to humanely kill the lions lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A senior official stated that humane killing had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done correctly,” the official stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and enclosure responsibilities.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

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

The facility repeatedly experienced economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.