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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a online post, the establishment 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 euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are heartbroken,” said the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable capital investment,” the director noted.

In a later statement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the director said.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, begging for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The manager noted that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we handle this heartbreaking predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to euthanise the cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done correctly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility often experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the park to shut down until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.