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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment clarified that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are heartbroken,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the director noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from the community, pleading for a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to menacing and insulting remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that passions are strong, but we ask for compassion and courtesy as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to humanely kill the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to confirm this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to meet its animal care and security obligations.”

The sanctuary achieved a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park often encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.