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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a online post, the facility explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable capital investment,” the manager added.

In a subsequent statement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager said.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

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

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The manager stated that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request compassion and decency as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

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

A senior official explained that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The park achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park repeatedly experienced financial trouble and staffing problems, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to close until the habitats were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.