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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to euthanise two of its older lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a online update, the facility clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the director noted.

In a subsequent statement, the park verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

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

The facility’s posts were flooded with messages from the community, begging for a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the plan to put them down.

The manager mentioned that alongside the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also received threatening and insulting messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for compassion and respect as we handle this devastating situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department clarified that the determination to humanely kill the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A senior official explained that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the official stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure responsibilities.”

The facility achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility often ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.