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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

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

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

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial financial backing,” the operator noted.

In a later announcement, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were filled with messages from the community, begging for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the park would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request consideration and courtesy as we handle this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

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

“An compliance official will be onsite to verify this is done correctly,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park often experienced economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the park to close until the habitats were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.