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

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

In a online update, the establishment indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant monetary input,” the director noted.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and providing for the lions. Although the window is short and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were flooded with comments from members of the public, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the facility would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The director stated that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and courtesy as we navigate this devastating circumstance.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the decision to euthanise the lions lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and containment obligations.”

The sanctuary gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary often experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the facility to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.