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

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

In a social media announcement, the facility clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are devastated,” said the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant monetary input,” the director added.

In a subsequent update, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the director stated.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to investigate this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the facility would review the plan to put them down.

The manager stated that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for kindness and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the choice to humanely kill the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that humane killing had to be performed compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early part of the century when it featured on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility frequently ran into monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to shut down until the facilities were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.