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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the destiny 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 announcement, the facility explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are heartbroken,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the manager noted.

In a subsequent statement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director stated.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to explore this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from the community, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The operator mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received menacing and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we manage this heartbreaking predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the determination to humanely kill the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done correctly,” the representative noted. “We are confident that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal welfare and enclosure responsibilities.”

The facility attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

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

The park frequently encountered financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.