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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment explained that its owner had put the property 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.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial financial backing,” the director explained.

In a later announcement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” 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 providing for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The operator noted that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and abusive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we request kindness and respect as we handle this devastating situation.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to euthanise the cats lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A high-ranking officer stated that humane killing had to be performed humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done properly,” the official stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The park attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it appeared on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to close until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.