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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media update, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” said the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial monetary input,” the manager added.

In a later update, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate option” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed desire that the park would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The manager mentioned that alongside the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered menacing and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we appeal for consideration and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking predicament.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the choice to put down the cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

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

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and security obligations.”

The sanctuary achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly experienced financial trouble and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to close until the enclosures were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.