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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online update, the facility clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are devastated,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial capital investment,” the operator noted.

In a recent announcement, the park confirmed 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 incurable and were worsening. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the manager said.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in purchasing the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is short and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

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

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from members of the public, pleading for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed desire that the park would review the course of action to euthanise them.

The manager stated that alongside the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request compassion and courtesy as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the determination to euthanise the big cats lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that humane killing had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The park gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility frequently encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.