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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its older lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial monetary input,” the operator explained.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were worsening. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the manager said.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in purchasing the establishment and providing for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the decision to end their lives.

The operator mentioned that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered threatening and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the determination to put down the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

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

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary repeatedly encountered economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.