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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“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 land but significant monetary input,” the manager noted.

In a recent announcement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the manager remarked.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. While the deadline is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or ethical choice” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The manager stated that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received threatening and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and respect as we manage this tragic situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to euthanise the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A senior official explained that putting down had to be performed ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and security obligations.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park frequently encountered financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to shut down until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.