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

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the director explained.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator stated.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is tight and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or ethical choice” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were filled with responses from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the sanctuary would rethink the course of action to end their lives.

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

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and decency as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to euthanise the big cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A senior official explained that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the official noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The park gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park often experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the park to shut down until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.