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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, the facility 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 put down “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but significant financial backing,” the director explained.

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

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

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. Although the window is short and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or humane choice” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would rethink the course of action to end their lives.

The manager noted that amid the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also received threatening and insulting remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we ask for consideration and respect as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to put down the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A high-ranking officer stated that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are confident that the facility continues to meet its wildlife protection and containment obligations.”

The park achieved minor fame in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park often experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.