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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility indicated that its owner 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 landowner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the director explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the director remarked.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, begging for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the sanctuary would review the plan to euthanise them.

The operator noted that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request consideration and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the choice to humanely kill the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

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

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park often ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to close until the habitats were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.