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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media update, the facility clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are deeply saddened,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial financial backing,” the director noted.

In a subsequent announcement, the park verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the director said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in acquiring the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is limited and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane option” due to their age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from members of the public, begging for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that amid the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and abusive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we ask for consideration and respect as we handle this tragic situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the decision to euthanise the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director commented that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the official stated. “We are confident that the facility continues to meet its wildlife protection and enclosure responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park repeatedly encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to shut down until the habitats were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.