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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to put down two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media post, the facility 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 “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are heartbroken,” commented the park’s director.

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant financial backing,” the operator noted.

In a subsequent statement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager stated.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or ethical choice” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from the community, requesting a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The manager noted that amid the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and decency as we manage this tragic situation.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the determination to put down the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be conducted ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are confident that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and enclosure responsibilities.”

The sanctuary achieved some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to close until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.