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

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

In a online announcement, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial financial backing,” the director added.

In a later announcement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the manager said.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to investigate this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or compassionate choice” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the course of action to put them down.

The director mentioned that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for compassion and decency as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the determination to put down the cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

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

“An compliance official will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and containment requirements.”

The park gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park repeatedly experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to shut down until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.