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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media update, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” said the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial financial backing,” the operator added.

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

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or compassionate alternative” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with responses from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the park would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The operator noted that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department stated that the decision to humanely kill the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be onsite to verify this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are confident that the facility continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and enclosure requirements.”

The facility attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park frequently experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to close until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.