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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to put down two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media update, the facility explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

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

In a later statement, the park announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the manager said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would review the course of action to euthanise them.

The manager stated that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and offensive remarks.

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

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department stated that the determination to put down the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

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

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The park gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park often experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to close until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.