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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media update, 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 “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are devastated,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the operator added.

In a recent statement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the director remarked.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is short and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the sanctuary would review the course of action to put them down.

The operator noted that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request kindness and courtesy as we manage this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to put down the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A deputy director commented that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park frequently encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to cease operations until the habitats were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.