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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to put down two of its older lions, with the fate of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media post, the facility indicated 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 team and I are deeply saddened,” commented the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the operator explained.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable 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 previously indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and providing for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or compassionate alternative” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with responses from the community, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and abusive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we ask for consideration and respect as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the choice to put down the cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure responsibilities.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to shut down until the enclosures were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.