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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are deeply saddened,” commented the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable capital investment,” the manager added.

In a later statement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical choice” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the sanctuary would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The operator noted that among the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we ask for compassion and respect as we manage this devastating situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to put down the cats lay with the owners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A senior official explained that putting down had to be carried out humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to confirm this is done properly,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure responsibilities.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park frequently experienced financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to shut down until the habitats were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.