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

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

In a online update, the facility clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are deeply saddened,” commented the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the manager noted.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the director stated.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and maintain optimism.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by responses from the community, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the sanctuary would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The operator noted that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received threatening and abusive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for compassion and respect as we handle this devastating circumstance.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the determination to humanely kill the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A deputy director stated that humane killing had to be conducted compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The sanctuary attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked 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 park to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.