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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, 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 property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are devastated,” commented the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial financial backing,” the operator explained.

In a subsequent statement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this option and keep hope alive.”

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

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the course of action to put them down.

The manager mentioned that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and respect as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the determination to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer stated that euthanasia had to be performed humanely, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and containment obligations.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary frequently experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.