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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a online update, the facility indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are heartbroken,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial capital investment,” the operator explained.

In a recent statement, the park verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator stated.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or compassionate option” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the facility would review the course of action to put them down.

The director noted that among the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to threatening and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for consideration and decency as we handle this devastating situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department stated that the decision to euthanise the big cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be onsite to confirm this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure obligations.”

The sanctuary achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park often ran into economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to close until the enclosures were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.