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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media post, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are heartbroken,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but significant financial backing,” the director noted.

In a later announcement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director stated.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or compassionate choice” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were flooded with messages from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the decision to put them down.

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

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for compassion and courtesy as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department stated that the choice to put down the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

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

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

The park achieved a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility often ran into financial trouble and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the establishment to close until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.