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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a online update, the establishment clarified that its owner had put the property 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 landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable monetary input,” the director explained.

In a later statement, the park announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the manager said.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and keep hope alive.”

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 park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The director noted that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered threatening and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the decision to humanely kill the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

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

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and security responsibilities.”

The park achieved minor fame in the early part of the century when it featured on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the establishment to shut down until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.