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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to put down two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the facility indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant financial backing,” the manager noted.

In a subsequent update, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director remarked.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

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

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were flooded with responses from the community, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that amid the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and courtesy as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to put down the lions was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A deputy director stated that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary frequently experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to shut down until the habitats were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.