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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online announcement, the facility indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are heartbroken,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable capital investment,” the manager added.

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

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were declining. These actions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the manager said.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location 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 overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed desire that the park would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The director noted that among the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request consideration and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the determination to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

The facility gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to close until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.