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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media update, 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 put down “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are devastated,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but significant financial backing,” the manager explained.

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

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These actions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the director stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this possibility and hold onto hope.”

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

The park’s announcements were flooded with responses from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The operator stated that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered threatening and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the decision to euthanise the big cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with wildlife regulations.

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

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility repeatedly ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency instructed the facility to shut down until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.