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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other 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 update, the establishment explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial financial backing,” the operator explained.

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

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director said.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is short and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from the community, pleading for a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the decision to put them down.

The director stated that alongside the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and decency as we navigate this tragic situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to put down the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and containment obligations.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park often experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to close until the habitats were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.