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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its older lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media update, the establishment explained that its proprietor had put the property 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 property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are devastated,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable capital investment,” the manager noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the operator said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical option” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The operator stated that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we navigate this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer 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 responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently encountered financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to close until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.