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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable financial backing,” the director noted.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director stated.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the facility would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The director stated that among the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered hostile and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department clarified that the decision to euthanise the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be performed ethically, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done properly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and security obligations.”

The park gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

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

The facility frequently experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to close until the habitats were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.