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

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment explained that its proprietor 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 difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are devastated,” stated 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 monetary input,” the manager explained.

In a subsequent announcement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the director said.

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 acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is short and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or humane option” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would review the course of action to euthanise them.

The operator noted that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received menacing and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we handle this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the determination to humanely kill the lions was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

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

“An compliance official will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and enclosure responsibilities.”

The sanctuary achieved a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility often ran into financial trouble and employment issues, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to shut down until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.