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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to put down two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

In a online update, the establishment indicated 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 euthanised “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial monetary input,” the manager explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is short and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

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

The park’s announcements were filled with responses from the community, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The director mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We understand that passions are strong, but we request compassion and decency as we manage this tragic situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to put down the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal welfare and enclosure responsibilities.”

The park gained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it appeared on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility frequently encountered economic issues and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.