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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online post, the establishment explained 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 put down “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are heartbroken,” commented the facility’s manager.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable financial backing,” the manager explained.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and keep hope alive.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The director stated that alongside the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered menacing and abusive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to put down the cats lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be conducted humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.

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

The sanctuary attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility often ran into economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.