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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations 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 euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are devastated,” said the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant capital investment,” the operator noted.

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

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager remarked.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical choice” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from the community, begging for a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would review the plan to end their lives.

The manager noted that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and abusive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we navigate this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body indicated that the determination to humanely kill the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A deputy director stated that humane killing had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and security requirements.”

The park achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

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

The sanctuary repeatedly experienced financial trouble and staffing problems, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.