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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a online post, the facility explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but significant monetary input,” the operator explained.

In a recent statement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the facility and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or humane alternative” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would review the plan to put them down.

The director stated that among the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and insulting comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we request compassion and decency as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The government department stated that the decision to euthanise the lions was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done properly,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and security responsibilities.”

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

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

The sanctuary repeatedly ran into economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.