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

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment clarified 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 put down “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said the park’s director.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant monetary input,” the director explained.

In a subsequent update, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or compassionate choice” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The manager mentioned that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we handle this devastating situation.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body clarified that the choice to put down the big cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer explained that humane killing had to be performed ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to confirm this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and security responsibilities.”

The park attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park often ran into monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to shut down until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.