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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to put down two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

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

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but significant capital investment,” the operator noted.

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

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These actions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is limited and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with responses from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the park would review the plan to put them down.

The manager stated that among the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered menacing and offensive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request consideration and respect as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to put down the cats lay with the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that euthanasia had to be performed compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and enclosure obligations.”

The park gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park frequently ran into economic issues and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.