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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to put down two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the director explained.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the manager stated.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or humane option” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed desire that the park would review the decision to end their lives.

The director noted that alongside the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we request kindness and courtesy as we manage this devastating situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the choice to euthanise the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary frequently ran into financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency instructed the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.