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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online update, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” said the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but significant capital investment,” the director explained.

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

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to explore this possibility and keep hope alive.”

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

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The operator noted that amid the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and insulting messages.

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

The proprietor declined to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the determination to put down the big cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A senior official stated that putting down had to be conducted humanely, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure obligations.”

The facility attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to close until the facilities were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.