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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the facility indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable financial backing,” the director noted.

In a recent announcement, the facility announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the operator stated.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or ethical choice” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The manager noted that among the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered hostile and insulting messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for compassion and decency as we navigate this heartbreaking situation.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The government department stated that the determination to put down the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A senior official stated that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and containment obligations.”

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

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently ran into monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.