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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a online update, the establishment indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are devastated,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable monetary input,” the operator noted.

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

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or humane option” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with responses from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The director noted that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered hostile and offensive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and respect as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the determination to humanely kill the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that humane killing had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and containment obligations.”

The facility attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary frequently experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to shut down until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.