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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media announcement, 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 “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial monetary input,” the director added.

In a later announcement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were declining. These actions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the director stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The manager stated that amid the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and offensive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and respect as we navigate this devastating circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department clarified that the decision to euthanise the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to confirm this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are assured that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and enclosure requirements.”

The sanctuary attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility frequently encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to close until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.