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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to put down two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a online post, the establishment clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are heartbroken,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial monetary input,” the director added.

In a later statement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the director said.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is tight and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to explore this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or humane option” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered menacing and abusive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for kindness and decency as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the determination to humanely kill the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

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

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility often encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.