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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to euthanise two of its older lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media announcement, the establishment explained 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 euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are heartbroken,” stated the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable monetary input,” the manager explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the director stated.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or humane choice” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from the community, pleading for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The director noted that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and insulting comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and decency as we navigate this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to put down the lions lay with the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer stated that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary gained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to close until the habitats were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.