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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online update, the facility explained that its owner 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 property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are heartbroken,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial monetary input,” the manager explained.

In a subsequent announcement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator said.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or compassionate option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the sanctuary would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The director mentioned that amid the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and insulting comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we handle this tragic situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the choice to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are assured that the facility continues to meet its animal welfare and enclosure responsibilities.”

The sanctuary achieved a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility frequently encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to shut down until the habitats were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.