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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to put down two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a online announcement, the establishment indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the manager explained.

In a subsequent update, the park verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is short and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to investigate this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane option” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from the community, pleading for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the facility would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The operator stated that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and abusive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and decency as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to euthanise the lions was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A senior official explained that putting down had to be carried out humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be onsite to ensure this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The park achieved minor fame in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility repeatedly encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to shut down until the habitats were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.