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

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the facility clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are heartbroken,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but significant capital investment,” the director noted.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager stated.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in buying the facility and providing for the lions. While the window is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical choice” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the facility would review the course of action to euthanise them.

The operator noted that amid the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and abusive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request kindness and decency as we manage this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to meet its animal care and security requirements.”

The park gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

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

The park repeatedly encountered financial trouble and staffing problems, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.