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

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media post, the facility explained 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 euthanised “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial monetary input,” the director noted.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager said.

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

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

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or compassionate choice” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were flooded with responses from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The manager stated that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and offensive remarks.

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

The landowner declined to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to humanely kill the lions was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A senior official stated that humane killing had to be performed ethically, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to verify this is done properly,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park frequently experienced economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.