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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city 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 group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but significant financial backing,” the director noted.

In a subsequent announcement, the park verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. Although the window is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or humane choice” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

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

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

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the choice to put down the big cats lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be carried out humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to confirm this is done properly,” the representative stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The park gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park often ran into economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to close until the facilities were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.