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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to put down two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, the facility indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial monetary input,” the director explained.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were worsening. 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 euthanised.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

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

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the facility would review the course of action to euthanise them.

The operator noted that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we request kindness and decency as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to humanely kill the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its wildlife protection and containment obligations.”

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park often encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to shut down until the enclosures were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.