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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media announcement, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the manager explained.

In a later statement, the park announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator said.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or humane option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with responses from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the facility would review the plan to put them down.

The operator noted that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request compassion and respect as we manage this devastating predicament.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to humanely kill the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to meet its animal care and security obligations.”

The park attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility often encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to close until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.