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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media announcement, the facility clarified 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 euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are heartbroken,” said the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable capital investment,” the manager explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager said.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in acquiring the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or compassionate alternative” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would review the plan to end their lives.

The manager stated that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered menacing and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and decency as we manage this devastating predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body clarified that the determination to put down the cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be performed compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and security requirements.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.