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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to put down two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online update, the establishment indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial financial backing,” the operator noted.

In a subsequent announcement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the manager stated.

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

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

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

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed hope that the park would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The director stated that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for compassion and respect as we navigate this devastating predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department clarified that the decision to put down the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A deputy director stated that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to confirm this is done correctly,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and enclosure responsibilities.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility frequently ran into economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the facility to cease operations until the facilities were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.