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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

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

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” stated the facility’s manager.

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable monetary input,” the operator noted.

In a recent 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 actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have shown interest in purchasing the property and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane option” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with responses from members of the public, pleading for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the park would review the plan to put them down.

The manager stated that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and insulting remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we handle this devastating circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the choice to euthanise the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to meet its wildlife protection and enclosure requirements.”

The park achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility often experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.