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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media update, the establishment indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant monetary input,” the director explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the director said.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is short and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or humane alternative” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The operator stated that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and decency as we manage this tragic situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

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

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be conducted ethically, and in line with animal welfare law.

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

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly ran into monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.