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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a online post, the establishment explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are heartbroken,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant financial backing,” the manager noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director remarked.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from the community, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The director stated that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request compassion and respect as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the determination to humanely kill the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A deputy director commented that humane killing had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its animal care and security obligations.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park often ran into financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to shut down until the facilities were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.