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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a online post, the facility 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 challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial capital investment,” the director noted.

In a later statement, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or ethical choice” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were flooded with responses from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the decision to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered menacing and abusive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the determination to euthanise the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A senior official commented that humane killing had to be performed ethically, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The facility 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 soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary often experienced economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to close until the facilities were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.