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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but significant monetary input,” the director explained.

In a recent statement, the park 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 not treatable and were declining. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the manager said.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the establishment and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or humane option” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would review the plan to end their lives.

The operator noted that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to menacing and insulting comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we ask for compassion and decency as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to euthanise the big cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A senior official stated that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be present to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its animal care and security requirements.”

The park attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently encountered financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to shut down until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.