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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online announcement, the facility explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable monetary input,” the director explained.

In a subsequent statement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the park would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The manager noted that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to menacing and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we handle this devastating situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the determination to humanely kill the lions lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director commented that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and enclosure responsibilities.”

The facility attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility repeatedly ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency instructed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.