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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment indicated 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 put down “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are devastated,” commented the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but significant monetary input,” the operator noted.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the operator stated.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with responses from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the sanctuary would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The operator noted that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we navigate this devastating circumstance.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The government department clarified that the determination to put down the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park frequently encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.