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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to euthanise two of its older lions, with the fate of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media announcement, the facility explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are heartbroken,” said the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial monetary input,” the operator noted.

In a later update, the park verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the manager remarked.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or compassionate alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from members of the public, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that among the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we request consideration and respect as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to euthanise the lions was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

The park gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility often ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.