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

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

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

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable capital investment,” the director noted.

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

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager stated.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is short and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The operator noted that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered menacing and abusive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request consideration and respect as we handle this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to put down the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official commented that euthanasia had to be performed compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and security responsibilities.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly encountered financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to close until the enclosures were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.