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

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

In a social media update, the establishment explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are heartbroken,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the operator noted.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager stated.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is short and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate choice” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were flooded with responses from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The director mentioned that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to menacing and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and respect as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the decision to euthanise the cats lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and containment responsibilities.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park often experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency instructed the facility to close until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.