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

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

In a social media announcement, the establishment clarified 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 “following a challenging 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 future would require not only the purchase of the land but significant capital investment,” the manager noted.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate option” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the park would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The director stated that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and abusive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and decency as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the determination to humanely kill the lions lay with the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director stated that euthanasia had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the representative noted. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

The facility gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the facility to close until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.