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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online announcement, the establishment explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable monetary input,” the director explained.

In a recent statement, the park announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These actions 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 euthanised.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the establishment and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or humane alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the park would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The operator noted that amid the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request compassion and courtesy as we manage this devastating circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

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

A deputy director commented that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the facility continues to meet its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

The park attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility repeatedly ran into monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.