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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced 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 city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the facility explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are heartbroken,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial financial backing,” the director added.

In a subsequent announcement, 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 untreatable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the director remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this option and keep hope alive.”

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

The facility’s posts were flooded with comments from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The director mentioned that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered menacing and abusive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to humanely kill the cats lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park frequently experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.