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

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

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

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are heartbroken,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but significant financial backing,” the manager noted.

In a recent update, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in buying the property and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or humane option” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with messages from members of the public, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the park would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we navigate this devastating circumstance.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A deputy director commented that humane killing had to be performed compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The facility attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary frequently encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.