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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed 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 sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are devastated,” said the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial capital investment,” the operator explained.

In a subsequent update, the sanctuary verified 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 incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator remarked.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or humane option” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with responses from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the sanctuary would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered menacing and insulting remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request consideration and respect as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to euthanise the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently experienced financial trouble and staffing problems, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the government agency ordered the park to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.