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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced 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 shut down over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment indicated 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 “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are devastated,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable monetary input,” the director explained.

In a subsequent announcement, the park verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager said.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or ethical alternative” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed desire that the park would review the decision to euthanise them.

The operator noted that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and abusive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request consideration and decency as we navigate this tragic situation.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to put down the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A deputy director commented that humane killing had to be conducted ethically, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its wildlife protection and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently ran into economic issues and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to shut down until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.