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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a online update, the facility explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said 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 land but substantial monetary input,” the manager noted.

In a recent update, the facility verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager said.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or humane choice” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the park would review the plan to put them down.

The operator noted that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered threatening and abusive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and decency as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the determination to humanely kill the lions was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A high-ranking officer stated that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson said. “We are confident that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary repeatedly experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to close until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.