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

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

In a online announcement, the establishment explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are devastated,” said the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but significant monetary input,” the operator noted.

In a subsequent statement, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

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

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from members of the public, pleading for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The manager stated that amid the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to menacing and insulting remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for kindness and decency as we navigate this devastating predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to put down the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be carried out ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park often ran into economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.