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

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

In a social media update, the establishment clarified 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 put down “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” said the park’s director.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial capital investment,” the director added.

In a later statement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in buying the property and providing for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical choice” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from the community, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the park would review the decision to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that amid the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and respect as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department clarified that the decision to euthanise the lions was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official stated that humane killing had to be conducted humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to verify this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and security responsibilities.”

The facility attained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it appeared on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility frequently encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.