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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a online announcement, the facility indicated that its proprietor had put the property 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 property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but significant capital investment,” the operator explained.

In a recent announcement, the facility announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the operator remarked.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the property and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The manager stated that amid the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and abusive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request consideration and respect as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the determination to humanely kill the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to meet its animal welfare and enclosure responsibilities.”

The facility achieved a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it featured on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary frequently encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.