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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the remaining 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 social media update, 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 euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are deeply saddened,” commented the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial monetary input,” the manager explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the director stated.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. Even though the window is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The operator stated that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we ask for consideration and decency as we manage this devastating circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to put down the lions was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

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

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to meet its animal care and security requirements.”

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park often encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to close until the facilities were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.