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

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online update, the facility clarified 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 put down “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might potentially 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 operator explained.

In a subsequent update, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in acquiring the property and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or humane option” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and insulting remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we appeal for consideration and decency as we navigate this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department stated that the choice to euthanise the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down 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 representative said. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and security requirements.”

The park gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently ran into monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.