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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to put down two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment indicated that its proprietor 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 “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable financial backing,” the director added.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator said.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the property and providing for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and keep hope alive.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with comments from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the park would review the decision to end their lives.

The manager stated that among the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to threatening and insulting remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request compassion and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the decision to humanely kill the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

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

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its wildlife protection and containment responsibilities.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility often experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.