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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but significant financial backing,” the manager noted.

In a recent statement, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the deadline is limited and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were filled with responses from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The manager mentioned that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the choice to put down the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A deputy director stated that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the representative stated. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary repeatedly ran into financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency ordered the park to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.