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

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

In a social media update, the facility explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant monetary input,” the director added.

In a recent announcement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or compassionate choice” due to their age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from the community, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The operator noted that amid the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered threatening and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we ask for compassion and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the choice to euthanise the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director stated that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often ran into economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.