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

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

In a social media announcement, the facility explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” stated the park’s director.

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable capital investment,” the operator explained.

In a later update, the park announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director said.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane option” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from the community, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the park would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The manager stated that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and abusive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and decency as we navigate this tragic predicament.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the determination to put down the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be performed ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done correctly,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and enclosure responsibilities.”

The park achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary repeatedly ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to shut down until the facilities were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.