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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to put down two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

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

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial capital investment,” the director added.

In a later announcement, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the director said.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in buying the property and providing for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with responses from the community, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The manager mentioned that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and decency as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the choice to euthanise the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A senior official stated that humane killing had to be conducted ethically, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

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

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park often experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to shut down until the habitats were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.