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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its older lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media announcement, the facility indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable capital investment,” the operator noted.

In a subsequent announcement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, begging for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The director mentioned that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for kindness and decency as we navigate this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to humanely kill the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done properly,” the official stated. “We are confident that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently encountered financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the facility to close until the habitats were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.