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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to put down two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a online post, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are heartbroken,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable capital investment,” the manager explained.

In a subsequent update, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were worsening. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the manager remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. Although the window is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, begging for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the plan to put them down.

The operator noted that among the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department stated that the determination to put down the lions was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the official stated. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The park achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility often experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to close until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.