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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility clarified 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 “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are heartbroken,” commented the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but significant financial backing,” the operator explained.

In a subsequent update, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the manager remarked.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical choice” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered threatening and insulting remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request kindness and respect as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the choice to put down the lions lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A deputy director commented that putting down had to be conducted ethically, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the establishment continues to meet its animal care and containment requirements.”

The facility attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park often experienced economic issues and employment issues, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the park to shut down until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.