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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

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

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are heartbroken,” commented the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant monetary input,” the director noted.

In a later update, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were declining. These actions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the operator remarked.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with responses from the community, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that amid the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to threatening and insulting messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request consideration and decency as we handle this devastating circumstance.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The government department stated that the decision to put down the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A high-ranking officer stated that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to verify this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.