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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media update, the facility explained 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 “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial capital investment,” the manager explained.

In a subsequent update, the facility announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director said.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the sanctuary would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The director noted that alongside the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking predicament.”

The landowner declined to comment.

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

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be performed humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to confirm this is done properly,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and containment obligations.”

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

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility often experienced economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to close until the facilities were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.