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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, the facility indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are heartbroken,” stated the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the manager explained.

In a later statement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the operator stated.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or humane choice” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would review the plan to end their lives.

The director stated that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to threatening and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we manage this devastating predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to humanely kill the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A deputy director commented that euthanasia had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

The facility attained minor fame 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 fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to close until the enclosures were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.