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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial capital investment,” the manager added.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the director said.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is short and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were filled with responses from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the sanctuary would review the plan to end their lives.

The director stated that amid the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered hostile and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request compassion and decency as we handle this devastating circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the choice to euthanise the lions lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The park gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park often experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.