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

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment clarified that its owner 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 difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial capital investment,” the director noted.

In a subsequent statement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were declining. These actions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The director noted that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to threatening and insulting comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we request compassion and decency as we handle this devastating situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department clarified that the choice to put down the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be performed ethically, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

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

The facility repeatedly encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to close until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.