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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online 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 “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are devastated,” commented the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant capital investment,” the manager explained.

In a recent update, the park announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the property and maintaining care for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or compassionate alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with messages from the community, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The manager mentioned that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and abusive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we ask for consideration and respect as we navigate this tragic predicament.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to euthanise the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A deputy director commented that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and containment obligations.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early part of the century when it featured on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary frequently ran into financial trouble and staffing problems, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to close until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.