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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a online post, 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 put down “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable financial backing,” the operator added.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the facility and providing for the lions. Even though the window is limited and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or ethical alternative” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from members of the public, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the park would review the plan to end their lives.

The director noted that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received menacing and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we request consideration and respect as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to put down the lions was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done properly,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility repeatedly ran into financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to close until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.