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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, the facility clarified 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 put down “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are heartbroken,” stated the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable capital investment,” the manager explained.

In a subsequent statement, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator said.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or compassionate option” due to their age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were filled with messages from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the park would review the plan to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request compassion and decency as we manage this tragic situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to put down the lions lay with the owners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A high-ranking officer stated that euthanasia had to be conducted humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative noted. “We are confident that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The park achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

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

The park frequently encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to shut down until the enclosures were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.