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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a online post, the facility explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the director explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical choice” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from the community, pleading for a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the park would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The director noted that among the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and respect as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to humanely kill the big cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director commented that putting down had to be performed ethically, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be onsite to verify this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are confident that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure obligations.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often experienced economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to cease operations until the enclosures were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.