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

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

In a social media update, the facility clarified 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 euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial monetary input,” the operator added.

In a later update, the sanctuary announced 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 deteriorating. These actions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the operator stated.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the establishment and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or humane option” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The director stated that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to euthanise the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A senior official commented that euthanasia had to be conducted humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.