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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to euthanise two of its older lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

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

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

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant capital investment,” the operator noted.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The manager stated that among the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and insulting messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we manage this tragic situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to put down the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to meet its wildlife protection and security responsibilities.”

The park attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility often ran into economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.