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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media announcement, the facility clarified that its owner 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 difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are devastated,” commented the park’s director.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the operator explained.

In a subsequent update, the sanctuary verified 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 deteriorating. These decisions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is limited and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

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

The facility’s posts were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would review the plan to euthanise them.

The operator noted that amid the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received threatening and abusive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and decency as we navigate this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body indicated that the determination to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A high-ranking officer stated that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to close until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.