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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a online post, the facility explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are heartbroken,” commented the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable monetary input,” the director explained.

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

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the manager said.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. While the window is short and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this option and maintain optimism.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received menacing and insulting remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request consideration and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to humanely kill the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that humane killing had to be conducted ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and enclosure responsibilities.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often ran into monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.