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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to put down two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

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

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant financial backing,” the director noted.

In a subsequent update, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director said.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

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

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The manager mentioned that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and abusive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and respect as we handle this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to put down the lions lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A senior official commented that euthanasia had to be performed humanely, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and containment obligations.”

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

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary frequently encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.