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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the manager explained.

In a recent announcement, 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 declining. These actions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the operator said.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to investigate this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from the community, pleading for a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The manager noted that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we appeal for consideration and courtesy as we handle this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department stated that the determination to put down the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A senior official explained that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

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

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary often experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to close until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.