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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable monetary input,” the director added.

In a subsequent announcement, 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 actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is short and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or humane option” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would review the course of action to end their lives.

The manager noted that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and insulting messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we manage this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to put down the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be onsite to verify this is done correctly,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility often ran into financial trouble and staffing problems, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to close until the habitats were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.