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

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a online announcement, 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 difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable capital investment,” the operator noted.

In a later update, the park 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 actions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the manager remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is limited and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

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

The facility’s posts were flooded with comments from concerned citizens, begging for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would rethink the decision to put them down.

The manager stated that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered threatening and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for compassion and courtesy as we manage this devastating predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department stated that the decision to put down the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A deputy director commented that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it featured on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary repeatedly ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to close until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.