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

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

In a online update, the establishment explained 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 put down “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are devastated,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but significant financial backing,” the operator explained.

In a recent update, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were declining. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the manager stated.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or compassionate option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from concerned citizens, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The operator stated that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to menacing and insulting remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for kindness and respect as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the decision to put down the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be onsite to ensure this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are confident that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and enclosure obligations.”

The park achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary repeatedly experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to close until the facilities were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.