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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a online update, the facility indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are deeply saddened,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but significant monetary input,” the manager added.

In a later update, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were declining. These actions 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 handful of parties have shown interest in buying the establishment and providing for the lions. While the deadline is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or compassionate alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the park would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The manager mentioned that alongside the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we request kindness and respect as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to euthanise the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are confident that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure obligations.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary repeatedly ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency ordered the park to shut down until the facilities were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.