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

The private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online post, the establishment clarified 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 euthanised “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant capital investment,” the director explained.

In a subsequent statement, the park announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the deadline is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from the community, begging for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would review the plan to end their lives.

The operator noted that among the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for consideration and decency as we handle this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to euthanise the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer explained that humane killing had to be conducted humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and enclosure responsibilities.”

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

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often ran into financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.