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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media post, the facility indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the manager noted.

In a later update, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager said.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this option and keep hope alive.”

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

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would rethink the decision to put them down.

The operator stated that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and abusive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for kindness and decency as we navigate this devastating predicament.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department stated that the choice to euthanise the cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

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

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and enclosure responsibilities.”

The park achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park often experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to shut down until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.