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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to put down two of its older lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

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

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are heartbroken,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial monetary input,” the operator noted.

In a recent update, the facility verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have shown interest in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is limited and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the park would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that among the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered threatening and abusive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and courtesy as we navigate this tragic predicament.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to put down the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official commented that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to meet its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently ran into monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to close until the enclosures were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.