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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 destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media announcement, the facility clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are devastated,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant capital investment,” the manager noted.

In a recent statement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were worsening. These choices 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 earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were flooded with responses from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would review the plan to put them down.

The operator stated that amid the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to menacing and offensive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and respect as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the determination to put down the lions lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The park attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

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

The sanctuary often experienced financial trouble and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to close until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.