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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant capital investment,” the director explained.

In a recent update, the facility announced 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 declining. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the deadline is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to explore this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were flooded with comments from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The director stated that amid the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and courtesy as we manage this devastating situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The facility gained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park often ran into economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to close until the habitats were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.