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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment explained 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 “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“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 substantial financial backing,” the operator added.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were declining. These actions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the director stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other 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 deadline is limited and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from the community, requesting a second chance for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The director noted that amid the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to menacing and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we manage this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the decision to euthanise the big cats lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A senior official explained that humane killing had to be performed humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

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

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility often experienced economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to shut down until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.