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

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

In a online update, 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 “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are devastated,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but significant capital investment,” the operator noted.

In a recent update, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is limited and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were filled with messages from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The director noted that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to threatening and insulting remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we handle this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to put down the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be conducted ethically, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the official noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to meet its animal care and containment requirements.”

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

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary often ran into economic issues and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.