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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to put down 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 post, the facility explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial monetary input,” the director explained.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the director said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be put down.

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

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or compassionate alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would rethink the decision to put them down.

The operator noted that alongside the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for consideration and decency as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to euthanise the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A senior official commented that humane killing had to be conducted ethically, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative stated. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park often experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.