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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 other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media announcement, the facility 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 challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are devastated,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but significant financial backing,” the manager added.

In a later update, the park verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager stated.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

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

The park’s announcements were flooded with responses from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would review the plan to end their lives.

The manager noted that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and abusive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request kindness and respect as we handle this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The regulatory body indicated that the determination to euthanise the lions was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment requirements.”

The park attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park frequently experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.