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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a online update, the facility clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are devastated,” said the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable monetary input,” the operator explained.

In a subsequent statement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing all we can 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 number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from the community, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would review the decision to euthanise them.

The manager noted that amid the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered threatening and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the determination to put down the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and containment requirements.”

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

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

The sanctuary frequently experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to close until the enclosures were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.