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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, 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 euthanised “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial monetary input,” the operator noted.

In a subsequent announcement, the facility confirmed 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 incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the director remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or compassionate option” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with responses from the community, requesting a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The manager noted that among the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered threatening and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we request consideration and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to euthanise the cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A deputy director stated that humane killing had to be performed humanely, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its wildlife protection and security responsibilities.”

The park attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to close until the facilities were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.