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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a online post, the establishment explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable capital investment,” the operator added.

In a recent update, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the director said.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in buying the establishment and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is limited and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with responses from the community, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The director stated that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request compassion and decency as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

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

A senior official stated that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to confirm this is done correctly,” the official stated. “We are confident that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The sanctuary attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility often encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.