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

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

In a social media post, the establishment 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 put down “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are heartbroken,” said the facility’s manager.

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable capital investment,” the manager explained.

In a subsequent statement, the facility announced 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 not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or ethical choice” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the park would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The operator noted that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered threatening and insulting comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and respect as we navigate this tragic predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department indicated that the choice to humanely kill the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be onsite to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

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

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park frequently encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the establishment to close until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.