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

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, 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 euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are heartbroken,” stated 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 considerable financial backing,” the manager added.

In a later update, the facility verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director said.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or compassionate choice” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with responses from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would review the course of action to end their lives.

The operator stated that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered menacing and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and courtesy as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the determination to humanely kill the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A high-ranking officer stated that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson said. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its animal care and security requirements.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary repeatedly experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.