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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, 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 establishment indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial capital investment,” the director explained.

In a subsequent update, the sanctuary confirmed 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 not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care 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 several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Although the timeframe is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or compassionate choice” due to their age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were filled with responses from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that alongside the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and decency as we handle this heartbreaking predicament.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the decision to euthanise the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative stated. “We are confident that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly ran into economic issues and staffing problems, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.