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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to euthanise two of its older lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a online post, the facility clarified that its proprietor 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 difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are devastated,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant monetary input,” the director added.

In a recent statement, the sanctuary verified 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 untreatable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator remarked.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the plan to put them down.

The director stated that amid the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for compassion and courtesy as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to euthanise the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A senior official explained that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be onsite to verify this is done properly,” the representative stated. “We are assured that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and enclosure obligations.”

The park gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park frequently experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to close until the enclosures were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.