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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media post, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are heartbroken,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial monetary input,” the operator added.

In a recent statement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager stated.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is short and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical alternative” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were flooded with responses from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the facility would review the course of action to put them down.

The manager stated that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered hostile and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that passions are strong, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we navigate this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to euthanise the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be present to confirm this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure obligations.”

The facility attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.