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

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

In a social media update, the facility explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are devastated,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant monetary input,” the operator explained.

In a recent update, the facility announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the director said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or ethical choice” due to their age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with responses from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The manager noted that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and courtesy as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to put down the lions was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment requirements.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary repeatedly encountered financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.