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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a online announcement, the facility explained 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 put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but significant monetary input,” the operator added.

In a subsequent statement, the park announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is short and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate option” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The operator mentioned that alongside the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to menacing and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the choice to euthanise the cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to meet its wildlife protection and enclosure obligations.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility often ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to close until the enclosures were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.