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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a online update, the facility indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant monetary input,” the manager explained.

In a recent statement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator stated.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is short and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

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

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from the community, requesting a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would review the plan to put them down.

The manager mentioned that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and insulting messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for compassion and decency as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner declined to comment.

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

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be conducted ethically, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to verify this is done properly,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility often ran into monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the facility to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.