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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media announcement, the facility indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are devastated,” stated the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial financial backing,” the operator noted.

In a recent update, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or compassionate option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would review the decision to end their lives.

The operator mentioned that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered menacing and insulting remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and decency as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to humanely kill the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be onsite to verify this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and containment requirements.”

The park gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.