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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a online update, the facility explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are devastated,” said the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable monetary input,” the manager explained.

In a recent statement, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were declining. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator said.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or humane choice” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with responses from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the decision to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that among the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department clarified that the decision to put down the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A deputy director commented that euthanasia had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and security requirements.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to shut down until the habitats were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.