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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to put down two of its older lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online announcement, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had put the property 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 landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are heartbroken,” commented the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant capital investment,” the operator explained.

In a recent update, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were deteriorating. 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 park had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

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

The facility’s posts were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The director stated that amid the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request kindness and respect as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the determination to humanely kill the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are confident that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The park attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility frequently experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.