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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a online post, the establishment 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 euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are heartbroken,” said the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial monetary input,” the director explained.

In a recent update, the park announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator said.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this possibility and keep hope alive.”

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

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would review the course of action to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request consideration and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to humanely kill the big cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official commented that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure obligations.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility often encountered financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to shut down until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.