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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

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

In a online announcement, the facility explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are deeply saddened,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant capital investment,” the director added.

In a recent update, the sanctuary 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 not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director stated.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the facility and providing for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or compassionate alternative” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with responses from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The director noted that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The government department indicated that the determination to put down the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A senior official stated that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be on location to confirm this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The facility gained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it featured on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility often encountered financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.