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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a online post, the establishment clarified that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are heartbroken,” 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 acquisition of the land but considerable monetary input,” the manager added.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager stated.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and keep hope alive.”

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

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would review the plan to end their lives.

The operator noted that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request consideration and decency as we handle this devastating situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to euthanise the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be conducted ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly experienced financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.