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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a online update, the facility explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are deeply saddened,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant capital investment,” the director added.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or compassionate option” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The manager mentioned that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we ask for compassion and respect as we manage this devastating predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to euthanise the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A deputy director stated that humane killing had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson said. “We are confident that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and containment requirements.”

The park attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.