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

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

In a online post, the establishment explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but significant financial backing,” the manager noted.

In a subsequent statement, the facility confirmed 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 actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager remarked.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is limited and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical alternative” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from concerned citizens, begging for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the course of action to put them down.

The operator mentioned that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received menacing and insulting comments.

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

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to humanely kill the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director commented that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done correctly,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The facility achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary often ran into monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency instructed the facility to close until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.