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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a online update, the establishment indicated 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 put down “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are devastated,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the operator added.

In a recent update, the park verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the director said.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or compassionate alternative” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from the community, pleading for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed desire that the sanctuary would rethink the decision to put them down.

The director stated that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for kindness and decency as we manage this devastating predicament.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to euthanise the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be conducted ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to confirm this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The sanctuary achieved some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.