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

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are heartbroken,” said the park’s director.

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant financial backing,” the director added.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director said.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

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

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed desire that the park 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 insulting remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The landowner declined to comment.

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

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be conducted ethically, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The facility attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary frequently ran into financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to cease operations until the enclosures were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.