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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to euthanise two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media update, the establishment clarified 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 difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are devastated,” commented the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but significant financial backing,” the director added.

In a recent statement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and keep hope alive.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The operator stated that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that passions are strong, but we request kindness and respect as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the decision to humanely kill the lions lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The park achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park often encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to close until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.