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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a online post, the establishment explained that its proprietor 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 difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are deeply saddened,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial financial backing,” the operator noted.

In a later update, the facility announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is tight and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or humane option” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from the community, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the park would review the decision to end their lives.

The manager noted that among the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request kindness and decency as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be onsite to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and enclosure responsibilities.”

The park achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

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

The facility frequently ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to close until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.