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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 fate of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online post, 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 deeply saddened,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable capital investment,” the operator explained.

In a later announcement, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or compassionate option” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The manager noted that amid the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request kindness and respect as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department stated that the choice to put down the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director commented that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to confirm this is done correctly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility often ran into economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to shut down until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.