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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to euthanise two of its older lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online announcement, the facility clarified that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial monetary input,” the operator added.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator said.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical choice” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The manager noted that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered hostile and insulting remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and respect as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department stated that the choice to euthanise the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A senior official explained that putting down had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and security responsibilities.”

The park attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it appeared on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to shut down until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.