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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but significant financial backing,” the manager added.

In a subsequent update, the park 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 incurable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or humane alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The manager stated that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and abusive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We understand that passions are strong, but we ask for consideration and decency as we navigate this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to put down the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary often encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the park to cease operations until the habitats were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.