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

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

In a online post, 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 euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable financial backing,” the manager noted.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

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

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The manager stated that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to menacing and abusive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the determination to put down the lions was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be carried out humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment obligations.”

The park achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to cease operations until the enclosures were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.