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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a online post, 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 property owner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable monetary input,” the manager added.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the deadline is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or humane choice” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with responses from the community, requesting a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The manager noted that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we ask for compassion and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to humanely kill the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that humane killing had to be performed compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and security responsibilities.”

The facility achieved a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

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

The facility often experienced economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.