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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled 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 past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment indicated 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 “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are devastated,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial monetary input,” the operator added.

In a recent statement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator said.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate option” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed hope that the park would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The manager mentioned that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for compassion and courtesy as we manage this devastating circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to euthanise the lions was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

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

The facility gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it featured on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

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

The park frequently encountered economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.