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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to put down two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media update, the facility indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant financial backing,” the manager explained.

In a later announcement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were filled with responses from the community, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the park would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The director stated that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and insulting remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request consideration and respect as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the decision to put down the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be onsite to confirm this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

The sanctuary attained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it appeared on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.