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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to put down two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

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

In a online announcement, the establishment explained 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 “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are devastated,” stated the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial capital investment,” the operator explained.

In a later update, the park announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is short and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would rethink the plan to put them down.

The manager noted that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and abusive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to put down the cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

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

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and enclosure requirements.”

The park gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary frequently encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.