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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a online announcement, the facility 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 landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are devastated,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable monetary input,” the manager added.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager stated.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with messages from the community, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would review the decision to put them down.

The manager mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we ask for consideration and decency as we navigate this devastating circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the determination to put down the lions was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A deputy director commented that humane killing had to be performed ethically, and in line with wildlife regulations.

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

The park attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly experienced economic issues and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to close until the facilities were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.