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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media post, the facility explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable financial backing,” the operator noted.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is limited and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and decency as we manage this devastating situation.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to euthanise the cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that humane killing had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson said. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its wildlife protection and enclosure responsibilities.”

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

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

The facility frequently experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.