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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media update, the facility clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are devastated,” stated the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial capital investment,” the director explained.

In a subsequent announcement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or compassionate option” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from the community, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would rethink the plan to put them down.

The manager noted that among the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the decision to put down the lions was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director commented that humane killing had to be performed ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security obligations.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park repeatedly encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the park to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.