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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

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

“There were no real options left. The team and I are devastated,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial financial backing,” the director noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in acquiring the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane choice” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with messages from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would rethink the plan to put them down.

The manager noted that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and insulting messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and decency as we manage this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the determination to euthanise the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A senior official commented that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The park gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility repeatedly encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.