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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment 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 put down “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are devastated,” said the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but significant monetary input,” the operator explained.

In a later announcement, the park announced that two of its lions had been put down.

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

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The operator stated that among the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we appeal for kindness and respect as we manage this heartbreaking predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the decision to euthanise the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A deputy director commented that humane killing had to be performed compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and security obligations.”

The facility attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary frequently encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the facility to close until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.