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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the facility clarified that its owner 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 property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial capital investment,” the operator explained.

In a subsequent announcement, the park announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye 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 consideration,” the manager remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or ethical choice” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to menacing and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for compassion and decency as we handle this devastating situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to humanely kill the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be conducted humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

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

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility frequently ran into economic issues and staffing problems, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the park to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.