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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome 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 past weekend.

In a online announcement, the facility indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are heartbroken,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant monetary input,” the director explained.

In a later statement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator said.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or compassionate option” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were flooded with responses from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The director noted that alongside the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered menacing and abusive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and respect as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department stated that the determination to euthanise the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done properly,” the official said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to meet its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it appeared on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently ran into economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the park to close until the enclosures were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.