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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to put down two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media 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 euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” stated the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant monetary input,” the operator added.

In a subsequent announcement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in buying the property and providing for the lions. Even though the window is short and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would rethink the course of action to put them down.

The manager stated that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request consideration and decency as we navigate this devastating predicament.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to humanely kill the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be performed compassionately, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park often experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the facility to close until the enclosures were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.