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

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment indicated 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 euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial monetary input,” the operator explained.

In a subsequent statement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the operator stated.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the deadline is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or ethical alternative” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from the community, pleading for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would review the decision to end their lives.

The manager noted that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for kindness and respect as we handle this devastating situation.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to put down the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A senior official commented that humane killing had to be performed ethically, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

The park gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to shut down until the habitats were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.