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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a online post, the establishment indicated 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 “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial financial backing,” the director added.

In a recent announcement, the park announced 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 untreatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the director remarked.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to explore this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from members of the public, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The operator mentioned that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and insulting remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for compassion and respect as we manage this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to put down the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be performed ethically, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

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

The sanctuary frequently encountered financial trouble and staffing problems, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to close until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.