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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial financial backing,” the operator explained.

In a recent statement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were worsening. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the director said.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or compassionate choice” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were filled with responses from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the park would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The director mentioned that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received threatening and abusive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and respect as we manage this devastating situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the determination to put down the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and security requirements.”

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

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary frequently encountered financial trouble and staffing problems, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.