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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to put down two of its older lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a online announcement, the facility indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are heartbroken,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial financial backing,” the director explained.

In a later announcement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were declining. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director stated.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would review the decision to euthanise them.

The director noted that among the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered threatening and insulting comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to humanely kill the big cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

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

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are confident that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure obligations.”

The facility gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to close until the enclosures were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.