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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online post, the establishment explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the director noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or compassionate alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the course of action to end their lives.

The operator mentioned that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

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

“An compliance official will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment obligations.”

The facility attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary frequently experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to close until the habitats were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.