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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to euthanise two of its older lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online post, the establishment clarified 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 “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable monetary input,” the director added.

In a later update, the facility announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the manager said.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in purchasing the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or ethical choice” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with responses from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the park would review the plan to put them down.

The manager stated that alongside the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered threatening and insulting remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the choice to put down the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The park attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park frequently ran into monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the facility to close until the facilities were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.