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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a online announcement, the facility explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial monetary input,” the director explained.

In a later announcement, the facility confirmed 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 incurable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the establishment and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or compassionate alternative” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed desire that the park would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The manager stated that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and decency as we handle this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department clarified that the decision to put down the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to confirm this is done properly,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure responsibilities.”

The facility achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility often encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.