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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, 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 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 heartbroken,” said the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial monetary input,” the operator added.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

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

The facility’s posts were flooded with responses from the community, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The manager mentioned that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request consideration and courtesy as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to euthanise the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director commented that humane killing had to be carried out ethically, and in line with animal welfare law.

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

The park attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary frequently encountered economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the park to close until the habitats were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.