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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to put down two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a online post, the establishment explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable monetary input,” the manager added.

In a subsequent statement, the park verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator remarked.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the timeframe is short and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the sanctuary would rethink the course of action to put them down.

The director mentioned that alongside the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request kindness and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department stated that the choice to humanely kill the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done correctly,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and security obligations.”

The sanctuary achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

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

The facility frequently experienced economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to cease operations until the habitats were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.