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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to put down two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media announcement, the facility clarified that its owner had listed the land 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 landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are devastated,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable monetary input,” the operator explained.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager said.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were flooded with responses from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the course of action to end their lives.

The operator noted that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request consideration and decency as we manage this devastating circumstance.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the determination to euthanise the lions lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and enclosure responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park repeatedly experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.