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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

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

In a online update, the facility indicated that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are deeply saddened,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant monetary input,” the manager added.

In a recent update, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator stated.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. Even though the window is short and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or humane option” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were filled with responses from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would rethink the decision to put them down.

The operator stated that alongside the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and insulting remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department stated that the choice to humanely kill the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The park attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency instructed the establishment to close until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.