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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to euthanise two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

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

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are heartbroken,” said the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but significant monetary input,” the operator explained.

In a subsequent announcement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the manager said.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in buying the property and providing for the lions. Although the window is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or compassionate choice” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were flooded with comments from the community, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The manager noted that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we ask for kindness and respect as we handle this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to humanely kill the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A senior official explained that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The facility attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary repeatedly ran into financial trouble and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to close until the habitats were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.