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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to put down two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online announcement, the establishment indicated that its proprietor 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 “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable capital investment,” the director noted.

In a later update, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the director remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or compassionate alternative” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from the community, requesting a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would review the decision to put them down.

The operator stated that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for consideration and courtesy as we handle this tragic situation.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The regulatory body clarified that the choice to euthanise the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A senior official commented that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are confident that the facility continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and enclosure responsibilities.”

The park attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park often experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.