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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past 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 put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the manager noted.

In a recent announcement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were declining. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the director stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

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

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The operator stated that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered menacing and insulting remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and decency as we navigate this tragic predicament.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the determination to put down the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official explained that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

The sanctuary attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park frequently experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to close until the habitats were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.