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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media announcement, the facility explained 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 difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but significant capital investment,” the manager noted.

In a later statement, the park confirmed 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 not treatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director said.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would review the plan to euthanise them.

The operator mentioned that among the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the choice to humanely kill the lions was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be performed humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The park attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently experienced economic issues and staffing problems, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.