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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” said the park’s director.

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the manager explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator remarked.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane option” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would rethink the course of action to end their lives.

The operator mentioned that amid the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we manage this tragic situation.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to euthanise the big cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A high-ranking officer stated that humane killing had to be conducted ethically, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to meet its wildlife protection and containment obligations.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility repeatedly ran into economic issues and staffing problems, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to close until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.