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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a online post, the facility explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the director explained.

In a later announcement, the facility confirmed 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 not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director said.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or humane alternative” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were flooded with responses from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the facility would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The director noted that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered hostile and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and respect as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department stated that the choice to euthanise the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be conducted ethically, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are assured that the establishment continues to meet its animal care and security requirements.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.