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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to put down two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment indicated 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 difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are heartbroken,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but significant financial backing,” the operator explained.

In a later announcement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were worsening. These decisions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the director said.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and providing for the lions. Even though the window is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or ethical choice” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The operator mentioned that amid the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and decency as we manage this devastating situation.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the determination to put down the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be conducted humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The park achieved a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park repeatedly experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to close until the habitats were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.