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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media post, the facility explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are devastated,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable financial backing,” the manager explained.

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

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the director stated.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate alternative” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with messages from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed desire that the park would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The operator noted that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered hostile and abusive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request consideration and courtesy as we manage this devastating predicament.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to euthanise the cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be performed ethically, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The facility gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park often ran into economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.