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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media announcement, the facility indicated 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 euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant capital investment,” the manager added.

In a later statement, the park verified 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 incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager stated.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with responses from concerned citizens, begging for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the park would review the plan to put them down.

The manager mentioned that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and decency as we navigate this tragic predicament.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to put down the cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be conducted humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the representative stated. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and containment obligations.”

The park attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park often ran into economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.