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

The private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the facility indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the manager noted.

In a later update, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

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

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have shown interest in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

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

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The operator mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and abusive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to put down the lions was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to verify this is done properly,” the official said. “We are confident that the facility continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and security responsibilities.”

The facility gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility often encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the park to shut down until the enclosures were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.