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

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the director explained.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or compassionate choice” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the facility would review the decision to euthanise them.

The director stated that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to threatening and insulting comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request compassion and courtesy as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to euthanise the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A senior official explained that putting down had to be performed ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

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

The facility often encountered financial trouble and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to shut down until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.