The remaining five lions at Whangārei's Kamo Widlife Sanctuary may have a "glimmer of hope" with individuals expressing interest in purchasing the facility and offering continuing care.
It had been announced on Tuesday that the lion park would be euthanising its seven elderly big cats.
The sanctuary confirmed this morning that two of the elderly lions, Imvula and Sibili, were euthanised yesterday because of ill health. The Ministry of Primary Industries confirmed to 1News the process had followed the Animal Welfare Act.
Facility operator Janette Vallance said the pair had "serious health conditions that were not treatable and were deteriorating".
"These decisions were made with deep care and consideration."
She said the wellbeing of the five remaining lions, Shikira, Cleo, Abdullah, Timba, and Themba, was a priority.
"We want to reassure everyone that we have thoroughly investigated options for the remaining lions.
"Unfortunately, due to their age, number and complex needs, relocation is not a viable or humane option."
The 32.5ha property was put on the market in August. Vallence said there was a "glimmer of hope" with a few individuals interested in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the ageing lions.
Adding to the urgency, Vallance revealed the sanctuary was informed of looming funding cuts just 10 days ago, placing “immense” pressure on the situation.
"While the timeframe is short and the situation remains uncertain, we are doing everything we can to explore this possibly and keep hope alive."
She added that the sanctuary had been in contact with animal rescue charity HUHA NZ and remained open to "any constructive conversations that may help secure a future for the remaining lions".
While there had been many kind messages of condolence and support, Vallance said some of the messages had become threatening.
"Sadly, overnight, the tone of some messages directed at me personally has become threatening and abusive.
"We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking situation."
Made famous by its founder Craig "the Lion Man" Busch and the hit TV show of the same name in the early 2000s, the sanctuary, then known as Zion Wildlife Gardens, was once home to 33 endangered big cats.
Busch was dismissed from the park in 2008, and the facility changed hands multiple times over the following decade.
A zookeeper was killed by a tiger in 2009, and Auckland-based Bolton Equities bought the property in 2014, investing $9 million in upgrades to meet government standards.
Rebranded as Kamo Wildlife Sanctuary, the park reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023. It continued operating under new management and underwent regular MPI welfare checks.
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