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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online update, the facility indicated that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are devastated,” stated the facility’s manager.

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

In a subsequent statement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the director remarked.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the park would review the decision to euthanise them.

The operator stated that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we appeal for consideration and courtesy as we navigate this devastating circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department clarified that the decision to humanely kill the cats lay with the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director commented that putting down had to be conducted ethically, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to shut down until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.