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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment indicated 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 landowner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial capital investment,” the manager explained.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the operator said.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the facility and providing for the lions. Although the window is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were flooded with responses from the community, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the sanctuary would review the decision to end their lives.

The operator mentioned that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and decency as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the determination to put down the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

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

“An compliance official will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

The park attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park repeatedly experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.