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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed 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 private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” said the park’s director.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant capital investment,” the manager noted.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director stated.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from members of the public, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The director stated that among the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered menacing and insulting comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to humanely kill the lions was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A senior official explained that humane killing had to be conducted compassionately, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its animal care and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.