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

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

In a social media update, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had put the property 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.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant monetary input,” the director added.

In a recent statement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were declining. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the facility and providing for the lions. While the window is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with responses from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The manager noted that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and abusive remarks.

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

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department indicated that the decision to put down the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be conducted humanely, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the official noted. “We are confident that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and security obligations.”

The facility gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility often encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the park to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.