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

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

In a social media update, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” said the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the manager added.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the director said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Although the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or compassionate option” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were flooded with messages from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to threatening and abusive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we handle this tragic situation.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department indicated that the determination to euthanise the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A senior official explained that humane killing had to be performed compassionately, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be on location to confirm this is done properly,” the representative noted. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The park achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

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

The park frequently encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.