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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to put down two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online announcement, the facility indicated that its owner had listed the land 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 property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are devastated,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but significant capital investment,” the director explained.

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 decisions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the operator remarked.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is limited and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would review the course of action to end their lives.

The manager noted that amid the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also received threatening and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the choice to humanely kill the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A senior official stated that humane killing had to be carried out ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and containment obligations.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park often ran into economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.