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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media post, the facility explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable capital investment,” the director noted.

In a recent announcement, the facility announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the operator stated.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in buying the property and providing for the lions. While the window is short and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or compassionate alternative” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the park would review the plan to put them down.

The operator noted that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and insulting remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we navigate this tragic situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

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

A deputy director commented that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be onsite to verify this is done correctly,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and security requirements.”

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

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility often encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.