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

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable financial backing,” the operator added.

In a subsequent update, the park verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the director remarked.

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 indicated willingness in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or compassionate alternative” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The operator stated that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received menacing and offensive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and respect as we handle this tragic situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the determination to humanely kill the cats lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A deputy director commented that putting down had to be performed compassionately, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done properly,” the official said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and security obligations.”

The park attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary repeatedly ran into economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the park to close until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.