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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online post, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable financial backing,” the director noted.

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 grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and providing for the lions. Although the window is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or humane alternative” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The director noted that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and offensive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for kindness and decency as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to put down the cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

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

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done properly,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park frequently ran into financial trouble and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency instructed the establishment to close until the enclosures were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.