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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online post, the establishment indicated 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 “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the director noted.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to explore this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The manager stated that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and abusive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we navigate this heartbreaking predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to euthanise the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and enclosure requirements.”

The sanctuary gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park repeatedly encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.