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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online post, 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 “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are heartbroken,” said the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but significant financial backing,” the operator explained.

In a later update, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the deadline is limited and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from the community, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The director stated that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and abusive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we handle this devastating situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to humanely kill the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director commented that humane killing had to be conducted compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be on location to ensure this is done properly,” the representative stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and security obligations.”

The sanctuary achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary often experienced financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the facility to close until the habitats were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.