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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to put down two of its elderly 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 weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial monetary input,” the manager noted.

In a later announcement, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager said.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have shown interest in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is limited and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

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

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

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to euthanise the lions lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A senior official stated that humane killing had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary frequently experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to shut down until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.