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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the outcome 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 weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment 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 “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are devastated,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but significant capital investment,” the director explained.

In a later statement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

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

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to investigate this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or compassionate alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed desire that the park would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that amid the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the determination to put down the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director commented that euthanasia had to be performed compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently ran into monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.