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

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online update, the facility explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” commented the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial capital investment,” the manager added.

In a subsequent statement, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical alternative” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The manager mentioned that alongside the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request compassion and decency as we manage this devastating situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department clarified that the determination to humanely kill the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A high-ranking officer stated that putting down had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to confirm this is done correctly,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and containment obligations.”

The park gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park often encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to close until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.