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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the director explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were filled with responses from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the decision to euthanise them.

The operator stated that amid the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to euthanise the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director commented that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and security responsibilities.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility often encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to close until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.