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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to put down two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a online announcement, the facility explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are devastated,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable financial backing,” the manager added.

In a recent announcement, the park verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the manager said.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. While the window is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to investigate this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or humane option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The director stated that alongside the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request consideration and courtesy as we manage this heartbreaking predicament.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done properly,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility frequently experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.