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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a online post, the establishment explained that its owner 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 challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable capital investment,” the manager explained.

In a later announcement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the facility and providing for the lions. While the window is limited and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or humane choice” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The operator stated that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for kindness and decency as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the choice to humanely kill the cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that humane killing had to be performed ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and security obligations.”

The sanctuary achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly encountered financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.