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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

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

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” commented the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the manager explained.

In a recent update, the facility verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the director said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. Although the window is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The operator noted that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and offensive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request compassion and decency as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

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

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the official stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and enclosure obligations.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility frequently ran into economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.