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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media post, the establishment explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the operator noted.

In a recent statement, the facility announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director said.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or compassionate option” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would review the plan to put them down.

The manager mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered threatening and abusive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and decency as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the choice to euthanise the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A high-ranking officer stated that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

The park attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary frequently experienced economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to shut down until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.