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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are devastated,” commented the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant monetary input,” the director explained.

In a recent update, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or ethical choice” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were flooded with responses from the community, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The operator stated that among the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request consideration and decency as we manage this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the determination to humanely kill the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be performed humanely, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and containment obligations.”

The park attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.