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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

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

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but significant financial backing,” the director noted.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. While the deadline is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed desire that the facility would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The manager noted that amid the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and insulting comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for consideration and courtesy as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the determination to euthanise the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A senior official explained that humane killing had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to verify this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary often ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to shut down until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.