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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but significant financial backing,” the operator noted.

In a recent statement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the manager said.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the sanctuary would review the plan to end their lives.

The director noted that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to hostile and abusive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the determination to euthanise the lions was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director stated that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The facility gained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park often experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.