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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media update, the facility clarified that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the director noted.

In a recent statement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the facility and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or compassionate option” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from concerned citizens, pleading for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that amid the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to menacing and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request consideration and courtesy as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the choice to humanely kill the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be carried out ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary often experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to shut down until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.