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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei shut down 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, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are devastated,” stated the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the operator added.

In a subsequent statement, the sanctuary 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 deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager said.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. While the deadline is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or compassionate option” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed desire that the park would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The operator noted that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request consideration and courtesy as we manage this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the decision to humanely kill the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A senior official commented that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done properly,” the official stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its wildlife protection and containment obligations.”

The park gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly ran into economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to shut down until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.