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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to euthanise two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility indicated 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 difficult 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 acquisition of the land but substantial capital investment,” the operator added.

In a subsequent update, the park verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“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 consideration,” the operator stated.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the facility and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or humane option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The director noted that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and insulting remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request consideration and decency as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director stated that euthanasia had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and security responsibilities.”

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

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary frequently experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to shut down until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.