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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a online update, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are heartbroken,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable monetary input,” the director added.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator said.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The operator noted that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and abusive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that passions are strong, but we request consideration and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the choice to humanely kill the big cats lay with the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to meet its animal care and enclosure obligations.”

The facility gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently experienced economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to close until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.