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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a online post, the establishment indicated 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 euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the director explained.

In a recent update, the park verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from members of the public, begging for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the plan to euthanise them.

The director noted that among the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request compassion and courtesy as we manage this devastating situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to euthanise the cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

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

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

The park repeatedly ran into monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to close until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.