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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to put down two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the facility clarified that its owner 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 “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but significant financial backing,” the operator added.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. Although the window is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, begging for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the facility would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The manager stated that among the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to threatening and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request kindness and decency as we manage this tragic situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to humanely kill the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A senior official explained that putting down had to be carried out humanely, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be onsite to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and containment responsibilities.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park frequently encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency instructed the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.