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

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

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

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

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial monetary input,” the manager noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager stated.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is tight and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or humane choice” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were flooded with messages from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The director mentioned that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received threatening and insulting remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We understand that passions are strong, but we request compassion and decency as we handle this tragic situation.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the choice to put down the lions lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A senior official commented that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and security obligations.”

The park attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility frequently experienced economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.