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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to put down two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the facility indicated that its owner 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 challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial capital investment,” the operator added.

In a recent update, the park announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the operator stated.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the facility and providing for the lions. Although the window is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

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

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the decision to end their lives.

The director stated that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and decency as we handle this devastating situation.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to euthanise the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the facility continues to meet its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility frequently encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the park to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.