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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media post, the facility indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable financial backing,” the director noted.

In a later announcement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager stated.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the deadline is limited and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and insulting comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and respect as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department indicated that the decision to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

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

The sanctuary attained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

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

The facility repeatedly ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to shut down until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.