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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online update, the establishment explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are heartbroken,” commented the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant capital investment,” the operator explained.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were declining. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or compassionate choice” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the course of action to put them down.

The director mentioned that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for compassion and decency as we handle this devastating situation.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the choice to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

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

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done properly,” the official said. “We are confident that the facility continues to meet its animal care and containment obligations.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the facility to close until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.