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

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are heartbroken,” commented the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but significant monetary input,” the operator explained.

In a subsequent statement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were declining. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is short and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or ethical choice” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from the community, begging for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the park would rethink the course of action to put them down.

The operator noted that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request consideration and courtesy as we manage this devastating circumstance.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the choice to put down the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official explained that humane killing had to be carried out ethically, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure obligations.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.