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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media post, the establishment clarified that its owner 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 difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant monetary input,” the director added.

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

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to explore this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane option” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were filled with messages from the community, begging for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the decision to euthanise them.

The director stated that among the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and insulting messages.

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

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the decision to euthanise the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A senior official commented that euthanasia had to be performed humanely, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure obligations.”

The park gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility repeatedly encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.