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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media post, the facility clarified that its owner 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 tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial monetary input,” the director explained.

In a subsequent announcement, the park announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator said.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the property and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is short and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate choice” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with messages from concerned citizens, begging for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would rethink the course of action to put them down.

The operator stated that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and insulting messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and respect as we manage this tragic situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to put down the lions was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A senior official stated that humane killing had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done correctly,” the official noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and security obligations.”

The park achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

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

The facility frequently ran into economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.