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

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a social media 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 euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are heartbroken,” commented the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial financial backing,” the operator added.

In a recent statement, the facility announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager remarked.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the property and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the deadline is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would review the course of action to euthanise them.

The director stated that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We understand that passions are strong, but we ask for compassion and respect as we handle this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department stated that the decision to euthanise the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be carried out humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.

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

The facility gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to close until the enclosures were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.