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

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

In a social media update, the facility explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are heartbroken,” said the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but significant financial backing,” the manager explained.

In a subsequent announcement, the facility 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 deteriorating. These actions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the manager stated.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or compassionate option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from the community, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The operator mentioned that alongside the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and abusive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request kindness and decency as we manage this devastating circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department stated that the decision to euthanise the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be performed compassionately, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done properly,” the official said. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its wildlife protection and security requirements.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility often encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the establishment to shut down until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.