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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial financial backing,” the manager explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the deadline is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or compassionate choice” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were flooded with responses from the community, requesting a reprieve for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The operator noted that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered menacing and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we manage this devastating situation.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the determination to humanely kill the big cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A deputy director commented that putting down had to be conducted ethically, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done correctly,” the official noted. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The park gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park frequently encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to close until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.