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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to put down two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment clarified that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are deeply saddened,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but significant monetary input,” the manager explained.

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

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

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is limited and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were flooded with responses from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The operator noted that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered threatening and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and courtesy as we handle this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to euthanise the big cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be conducted humanely, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to confirm this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and security requirements.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it featured on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to shut down until the facilities were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.