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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a online 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 “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are deeply saddened,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the director added.

In a later announcement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were declining. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager stated.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or compassionate option” due to their age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from members of the public, requesting a reprieve for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the park would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The manager stated that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to menacing and abusive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and respect as we manage this devastating predicament.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department stated that the determination to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director commented that humane killing had to be conducted humanely, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure obligations.”

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

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility often ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to close until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.