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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a online announcement, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial monetary input,” the director added.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the facility and providing for the lions. While the window is limited and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or ethical choice” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the course of action to put them down.

The manager mentioned that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to threatening and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to put down the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to meet its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park frequently experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the facility to close until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.