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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a online update, the establishment 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 tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the operator added.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or compassionate option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the facility would review the plan to put them down.

The director noted that alongside the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and insulting comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we manage this heartbreaking predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be performed compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.