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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media post, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had listed the land 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.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” commented the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable financial backing,” the manager added.

In a later announcement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been put down.

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

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or compassionate choice” due to their age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that among the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the determination to humanely kill the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that putting down had to be conducted humanely, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are confident that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and containment obligations.”

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

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.