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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a online announcement, the establishment indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are heartbroken,” said the facility’s manager.

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable capital investment,” the director noted.

In a subsequent statement, the park 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 not treatable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. Although the window is tight and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to investigate this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or humane choice” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we request kindness and courtesy as we manage this heartbreaking predicament.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the establishment continues to meet its animal care and containment requirements.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the facility to close until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.