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

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial monetary input,” the manager added.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. Although the window is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with responses from the community, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the park would review the course of action to end their lives.

The operator mentioned that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and abusive remarks.

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

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to euthanise the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director stated that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The sanctuary achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.