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

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

In a online update, the establishment explained 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 “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial monetary input,” the manager added.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator said.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or humane option” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were flooded with responses from the community, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The operator mentioned that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we ask for kindness and respect as we handle this devastating situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to humanely kill the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and enclosure obligations.”

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary frequently encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.