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

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are heartbroken,” said the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable capital investment,” the operator noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to explore this possibility and keep hope alive.”

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

The facility’s posts were flooded with responses from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the course of action to put them down.

The operator noted that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered menacing and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to humanely kill the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done properly,” the spokesperson said. “We are confident that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and enclosure obligations.”

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

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

The park repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the park to shut down until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.