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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, 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 establishment clarified 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 landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are heartbroken,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable capital investment,” the director explained.

In a recent announcement, the park announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or humane choice” due to their age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would review the course of action to end their lives.

The operator stated that among the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered threatening and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we handle this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department clarified that the decision to humanely kill the cats lay with the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be performed humanely, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done properly,” the official said. “We are confident that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The facility gained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the park to close until the habitats were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.