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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media update, the facility clarified 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 “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are devastated,” said the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the operator noted.

In a subsequent announcement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director remarked.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or humane option” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The manager stated that among the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered threatening and insulting messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we handle this devastating situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to euthanise the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are confident that the facility continues to meet its animal care and security requirements.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park frequently experienced economic issues and staffing problems, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to shut down until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.