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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a online update, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. 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 purchase of the land but substantial monetary input,” the manager noted.

In a later update, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or compassionate alternative” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the course of action to end their lives.

The director mentioned that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and offensive comments.

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

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to put down the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A senior official stated that putting down had to be performed compassionately, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the representative stated. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and security obligations.”

The facility gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park repeatedly encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to close until the enclosures were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.