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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to humanely kill two of its elderly 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 ceased operations 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 group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” said the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the operator explained.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. While the deadline is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane option” due to their age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with responses from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The operator mentioned that alongside the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and abusive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to humanely kill the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be on location to confirm this is done correctly,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

The sanctuary achieved a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary often encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.