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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are devastated,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial financial backing,” the manager added.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the director remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. Even though the window is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from the community, pleading for a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed hope that the sanctuary would review the plan to end their lives.

The operator stated that among the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we request kindness and decency as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the determination to humanely kill the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to verify this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are confident that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment requirements.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early part of the century when it featured on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly ran into economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.