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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

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

In a online post, the establishment indicated that its proprietor 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 “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable capital investment,” the operator explained.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were worsening. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the deadline is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or compassionate alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would review the course of action to euthanise them.

The director stated that among the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered threatening and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request kindness and respect as we handle this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the decision to euthanise the lions was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A senior official stated that putting down had to be conducted ethically, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The sanctuary 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 staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park often ran into economic issues and workforce challenges, 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 reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.