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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its older lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment clarified that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are devastated,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but significant monetary input,” the operator explained.

In a subsequent update, the park verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

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

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and providing for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

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

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the park would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The operator mentioned that alongside the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the choice to euthanise the cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A high-ranking officer stated that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to meet its wildlife protection and containment responsibilities.”

The facility achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

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

The facility repeatedly encountered economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to shut down until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.