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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media announcement, 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 property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are devastated,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable monetary input,” the manager added.

In a subsequent update, the sanctuary announced 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 worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would review the course of action to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that amid the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered threatening and insulting remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and decency as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the determination to euthanise the cats lay with the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that humane killing had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

The park attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently encountered economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.