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

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

In a online post, the facility indicated that its proprietor had listed the land 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 landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are deeply saddened,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial financial backing,” the operator explained.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the director remarked.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in purchasing the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The director mentioned that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we request consideration and respect as we manage this devastating situation.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A senior official commented that euthanasia had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security obligations.”

The park attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility frequently experienced economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to close until the habitats were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.