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

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are heartbroken,” stated the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable capital investment,” the operator added.

In a recent announcement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the director remarked.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to investigate this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or compassionate alternative” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the facility would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The manager noted that amid the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered threatening and offensive comments.

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

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the determination to euthanise the big cats lay with the owners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be performed compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security obligations.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary often encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to shut down until the facilities were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.