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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

In a online post, the establishment indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are deeply saddened,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial capital investment,” the operator explained.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is short and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from the community, requesting a reprieve for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the park would review the decision to euthanise them.

The director stated that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and insulting comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and respect as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the choice to humanely kill the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are confident that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and security requirements.”

The park gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it appeared on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.