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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online announcement, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the manager added.

In a recent announcement, the park confirmed 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 worsening. These decisions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would review the plan to put them down.

The manager noted that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we manage this devastating situation.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to humanely kill the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A deputy director stated that euthanasia had to be conducted humanely, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to confirm this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary repeatedly encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency instructed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.