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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media update, the establishment indicated that its proprietor 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 “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are heartbroken,” stated the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial capital investment,” the director added.

In a later announcement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is limited and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would review the decision to put them down.

The director noted that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and abusive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request kindness and respect as we navigate this tragic predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

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

A deputy director commented that putting down had to be conducted ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the official noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The facility attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently ran into financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the park to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.