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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media post, the facility explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are deeply saddened,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the director noted.

In a recent statement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the operator remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or compassionate alternative” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would rethink the decision to put them down.

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

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we manage this devastating situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the choice to humanely kill the big cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director commented that humane killing had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment requirements.”

The park gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility often ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the facility to shut down until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.