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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media post, the establishment clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are heartbroken,” said the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial monetary input,” the operator explained.

In a later update, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were declining. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager said.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The manager noted that among the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to menacing and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We understand that passions are strong, but we request consideration and decency as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the decision to put down the cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be performed ethically, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and enclosure obligations.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility frequently experienced economic issues and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency instructed the facility to close until the habitats were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.