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

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online post, the establishment explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are deeply saddened,” commented the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the manager explained.

In a subsequent announcement, the park announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were declining. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator stated.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the facility and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to explore this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or compassionate choice” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The manager noted that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request consideration and decency as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the determination to put down the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The park gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park repeatedly encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to shut down until the facilities were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.