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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media announcement, the establishment clarified 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 euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” said the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant monetary input,” the director noted.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were declining. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate choice” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with responses from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed hope that the park would review the plan to end their lives.

The director stated that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and insulting comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we manage this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are confident that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and containment responsibilities.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility frequently ran into financial trouble and staffing problems, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to shut down until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.