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

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment explained 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 tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are heartbroken,” stated the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial monetary input,” the manager noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The operator mentioned that amid the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also received menacing and abusive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department stated that the determination to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A deputy director commented that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The facility attained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

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

The sanctuary frequently encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.