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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media update, the facility explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are devastated,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial financial backing,” the manager noted.

In a recent update, the park announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from members of the public, begging for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The director noted that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to humanely kill the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be conducted humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done correctly,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary achieved a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park repeatedly experienced economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to close until the habitats were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.