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

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

In a social media update, the establishment clarified that its owner had listed the land 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.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but significant capital investment,” the manager added.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These choices were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the director remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the facility would review the plan to end their lives.

The director noted that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered threatening and abusive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we appeal for consideration and courtesy as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the choice to put down the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The park achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility often experienced economic issues and staffing problems, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to close until the enclosures were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.