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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to euthanise two of its older lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media announcement, the establishment explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are heartbroken,” commented the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant financial backing,” the operator added.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were worsening. These actions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the operator said.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the deadline is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or humane option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the park would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The manager stated that among the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for kindness and respect as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to humanely kill the big cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park repeatedly experienced economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.