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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are heartbroken,” stated the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial monetary input,” the director explained.

In a later statement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or humane choice” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the park would reconsider the course of action to put them down.

The director mentioned that among the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received threatening and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for kindness and respect as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to put down the cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be onsite to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and enclosure responsibilities.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to close until the habitats were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.