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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable capital investment,” the director noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the property and providing for the lions. Although the window is short and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The operator noted that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we ask for compassion and decency as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to put down the cats lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A senior official commented that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be present to verify this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are assured that the facility continues to meet its wildlife protection and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

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

The sanctuary often experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.