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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to put down two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a online post, 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 euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial financial backing,” the operator noted.

In a subsequent update, the facility verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director said.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or compassionate choice” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the sanctuary would rethink the plan to put them down.

The manager stated that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered hostile and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for consideration and decency as we manage this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the determination to humanely kill the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A senior official stated that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to confirm this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and enclosure obligations.”

The sanctuary attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary frequently ran into economic issues and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to close until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.