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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

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

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the manager explained.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical choice” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The director mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and insulting remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we ask for consideration and decency as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department stated that the choice to put down the big cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security obligations.”

The facility achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility often experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the facility to shut down until the facilities were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.