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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its older lions, with the destiny 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 past weekend.

In a online post, the establishment indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are heartbroken,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable monetary input,” the director added.

In a later statement, the park verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were worsening. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director stated.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or compassionate alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The operator stated that amid the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and abusive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and decency as we handle this devastating situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to humanely kill the lions was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be performed ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and security requirements.”

The park attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to shut down until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.