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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to put down two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a online post, the facility explained 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 challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are heartbroken,” said the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable capital investment,” the operator added.

In a subsequent update, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“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 deep care and deliberation,” the operator stated.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is limited and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were flooded with messages from members of the public, requesting a reprieve for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the park would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The manager mentioned that among the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered menacing and abusive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for consideration and courtesy as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the determination to euthanise the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be performed ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to verify this is done properly,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The park gained 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 mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary repeatedly experienced financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the park to shut down until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.