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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility clarified 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 put down “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are devastated,” said the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the operator added.

In a recent update, the park announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the establishment and providing for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or humane choice” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the facility would review the decision to end their lives.

The director mentioned that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and decency as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to euthanise the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary often ran into financial trouble and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to close until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.