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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

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

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the director added.

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

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

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The manager stated that amid the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and insulting comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we navigate this tragic predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department stated that the determination to euthanise the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A senior official explained that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be onsite to confirm this is done properly,” the official stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and security requirements.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary repeatedly encountered financial trouble and staffing problems, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.