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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media update, the facility explained 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 put down “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are devastated,” commented the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but significant financial backing,” the director noted.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the director remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

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

The facility’s posts were filled with messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would review the decision to put them down.

The director stated that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered threatening and insulting messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we handle this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the decision to humanely kill the lions was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are confident that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and security requirements.”

The sanctuary achieved some recognition in the early part of the century when it appeared on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.