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

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

In a social media post, the establishment explained that its proprietor 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 tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial monetary input,” the director added.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the director stated.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or compassionate alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the sanctuary would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The manager stated that alongside the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also received menacing and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we ask for compassion and courtesy as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the determination to humanely kill the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A senior official commented that humane killing had to be conducted humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and security requirements.”

The park achieved minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

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

The sanctuary often experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.