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

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media update, 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 put down “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are devastated,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the director noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the director stated.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from concerned citizens, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the park would review the decision to euthanise them.

The manager stated that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request consideration and decency as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department stated that the decision to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A senior official explained that humane killing had to be conducted ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and security requirements.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly encountered financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to shut down until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.