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

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

In a online 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 put down “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” said the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but significant financial backing,” the manager explained.

In a recent statement, the facility verified 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 not treatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the director stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have shown interest in buying the facility and providing for the lions. Although the window is limited and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or humane choice” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with responses from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The director stated that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request consideration and respect as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the determination to put down the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done properly,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

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

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility frequently ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to shut down until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.