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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to euthanise two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable capital investment,” the operator noted.

In a recent update, the park announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is limited and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane option” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the course of action to put them down.

The manager mentioned that among the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered menacing and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we request compassion and decency as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the choice to put down the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be performed humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early part of the century when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.