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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a online update, the establishment indicated that its owner had listed the land 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 landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are devastated,” said the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial monetary input,” the manager added.

In a subsequent announcement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the director remarked.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or compassionate option” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the park would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The manager noted that among the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to threatening and insulting comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and respect as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to euthanise the big cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the representative stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its animal care and containment obligations.”

The park attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park frequently ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to cease operations until the enclosures were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.