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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media announcement, the facility indicated 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 euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are heartbroken,” said the facility’s manager.

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant capital investment,” the manager added.

In a recent statement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical choice” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from the community, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The operator stated that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and decency as we navigate this heartbreaking situation.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to humanely kill the cats lay with the owners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A high-ranking officer stated that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The park attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to shut down until the habitats were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.