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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment 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 challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are devastated,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable capital investment,” the director explained.

In a recent statement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the operator said.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or compassionate alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from the community, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and insulting comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request kindness and respect as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to euthanise the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to confirm this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are confident that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and enclosure responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility frequently ran into monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.