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

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

In a online update, the facility indicated that its proprietor 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 “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are devastated,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the director noted.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were worsening. These actions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the operator said.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed desire that the park would reconsider the course of action to put them down.

The director stated that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request compassion and respect as we manage this devastating circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to put down the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A senior official stated that putting down had to be conducted ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to meet its animal care and security requirements.”

The sanctuary attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility repeatedly experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the park to cease operations until the facilities were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.