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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a online post, the facility explained 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 euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are devastated,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but significant monetary input,” the operator added.

In a subsequent update, the facility announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

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

The facility’s posts were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The operator noted that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered threatening and insulting comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request compassion and decency as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the choice to euthanise the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the plan.

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

“An compliance official will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The park attained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.