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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media announcement, the establishment 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 euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are heartbroken,” commented the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the manager noted.

In a recent update, the park announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager stated.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or compassionate choice” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would rethink the course of action to end their lives.

The operator mentioned that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and abusive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and decency as we manage this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department clarified that the decision to humanely kill the big cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that humane killing had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the official stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently experienced economic issues and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency instructed the facility to shut down until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.