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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online update, the facility clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are devastated,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the director explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director stated.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or ethical alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would review the course of action to euthanise them.

The operator noted that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and offensive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we navigate this tragic situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the choice to humanely kill the lions was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be performed ethically, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done properly,” the official noted. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and containment requirements.”

The park achieved a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park frequently encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.