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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online update, the facility explained 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 “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant capital investment,” the operator noted.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the director stated.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would rethink the plan to put them down.

The operator stated that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we ask for consideration and decency as we navigate this heartbreaking predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

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

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be conducted humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently ran into economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.