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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary 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 undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a online update, the facility clarified that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but significant capital investment,” the director explained.

In a subsequent update, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were declining. These actions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the director said.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate choice” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would review the plan to put them down.

The operator stated that among the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also received menacing and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department stated that the decision to humanely kill the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are confident that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The park achieved minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.