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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 fate of the other five lions still unclear, 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 establishment explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable capital investment,” the manager explained.

In a later update, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the operator said.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is short and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or ethical choice” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the course of action to put them down.

The operator stated that among the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to euthanise the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

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

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility frequently ran into economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to cease operations until the enclosures were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.