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

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

In a social media update, the facility indicated that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable financial backing,” the manager noted.

In a later statement, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator remarked.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or compassionate alternative” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with responses from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would review the plan to end their lives.

The operator stated that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and abusive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking predicament.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the determination to put down the big cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A senior official commented that euthanasia had to be performed humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment requirements.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility often experienced economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.