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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online post, the establishment explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are heartbroken,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial financial backing,” the director noted.

In a subsequent update, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator said.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. While the window is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or humane option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from the community, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would review the course of action to end their lives.

The director stated that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and insulting comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we handle this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to euthanise the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A high-ranking officer explained that humane killing had to be performed humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done properly,” the official noted. “We are confident that the facility continues to meet its animal care and security requirements.”

The sanctuary achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

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

The facility frequently experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.