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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media post, the facility explained 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 put down “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable monetary input,” the director added.

In a recent statement, the facility announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director stated.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is limited and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the park would review the decision to end their lives.

The manager stated that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to menacing and abusive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we handle this devastating circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to euthanise the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A senior official commented that humane killing had to be performed compassionately, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.