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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media announcement, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are devastated,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable monetary input,” the manager added.

In a subsequent statement, the facility announced 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 incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager stated.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is short and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or humane option” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would review the decision to put them down.

The operator mentioned that alongside the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered menacing and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that passions are strong, but we request consideration and courtesy as we manage this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the choice to put down the lions was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A deputy director commented that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are assured that the facility continues to meet its animal care and security obligations.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary repeatedly encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to shut down until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.