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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to euthanise two of its older lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media update, 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 tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are devastated,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but significant monetary input,” the director added.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the director said.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from the community, begging for a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed desire that the sanctuary would review the decision to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received threatening and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to humanely kill the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director stated that humane killing had to be performed humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to verify this is done properly,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The park gained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it featured on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly ran into financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to close until the facilities were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.