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

The private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are heartbroken,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but significant capital investment,” the director explained.

In a later statement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the deadline is limited and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with responses from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed desire that the park would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The manager noted that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We understand that passions are strong, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to euthanise the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done properly,” the official noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park frequently ran into financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to close until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.