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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to put down two of its older 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 closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility clarified that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant capital investment,” the manager noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to investigate this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from the community, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed hope that the park would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and abusive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the determination to humanely kill the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to confirm this is done properly,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

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

The facility repeatedly ran into monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.