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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment explained 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 euthanised “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but significant monetary input,” the manager noted.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have shown interest in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or humane alternative” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the park would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The manager noted that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and insulting remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the determination to humanely kill the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and enclosure requirements.”

The facility attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility frequently ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to close until the facilities were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.