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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to euthanise two of its older 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 ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, the facility indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff 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 purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the director added.

In a later statement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or compassionate option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were flooded with responses from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the course of action to put them down.

The manager mentioned that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and respect as we navigate this devastating predicament.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the decision to put down the lions lay with the owners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A high-ranking officer stated that putting down had to be performed ethically, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative noted. “We are confident that the establishment continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and enclosure requirements.”

The park achieved a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park often encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to close until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.