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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media update, the facility indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are heartbroken,” stated the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial capital investment,” the manager noted.

In a later statement, the park verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator remarked.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is short and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from the community, pleading for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The manager noted that among the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and insulting remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we appeal for consideration and decency as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to euthanise the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be conducted compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and enclosure responsibilities.”

The park gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park repeatedly experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to shut down until the facilities were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.