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

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

In a online update, the establishment indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are devastated,” commented the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable monetary input,” the manager noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the director remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical choice” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The operator noted that amid the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we request consideration and decency as we handle this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to humanely kill the big cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be conducted humanely, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and containment obligations.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility often experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to close until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.