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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are devastated,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable monetary input,” the operator noted.

In a later announcement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were declining. These actions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the manager said.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed hope that the sanctuary would review the plan to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that among the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request compassion and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to euthanise the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary often encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to shut down until the habitats were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.