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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media announcement, the facility indicated that its owner 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.”

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

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable monetary input,” the operator explained.

In a later update, the sanctuary announced 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 profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator stated.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane option” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The director noted that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request consideration and respect as we handle this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to euthanise the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A senior official explained that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and security requirements.”

The sanctuary attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary frequently experienced financial trouble and staffing problems, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to close until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.