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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

In a online update, 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 euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable capital investment,” the manager added.

In a recent statement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or ethical choice” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The director noted that alongside the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to humanely kill the lions was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

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

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done correctly,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its animal care and security requirements.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary often encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.