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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment explained that its owner 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 tough decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” commented the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the director explained.

In a recent announcement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Although the timeframe is short and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or compassionate alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from the community, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The operator noted that amid the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for kindness and decency as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the choice to humanely kill the big cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer stated that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to meet its animal welfare and security obligations.”

The park attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary repeatedly encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.