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

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

In a social media update, the facility indicated 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 difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but significant capital investment,” the operator explained.

In a recent statement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

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

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the facility would review the plan to end their lives.

The director noted that among the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and insulting remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we manage this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the choice to euthanise the lions was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to meet its animal care and security obligations.”

The sanctuary gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

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

The facility repeatedly experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.