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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media update, the facility explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are devastated,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but significant financial backing,” the operator explained.

In a subsequent statement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the director stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

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

The facility’s posts were flooded with responses from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the sanctuary would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The manager noted that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered menacing and abusive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request consideration and courtesy as we navigate this tragic situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department indicated that the determination to euthanise the big cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A senior official commented that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment responsibilities.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.