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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the facility clarified that its owner 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 “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant monetary input,” the director added.

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

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were declining. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the director stated.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the deadline is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and keep hope alive.”

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

The facility’s posts were flooded with messages from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The operator mentioned that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we ask for consideration and respect as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department clarified that the determination to put down the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A senior official explained that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it appeared on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park repeatedly encountered economic issues and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to shut down until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.