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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to put down two of its older lions, with the fate of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media post, the establishment indicated that its proprietor 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 tough decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are devastated,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but significant capital investment,” the operator explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or compassionate option” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with responses from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The manager noted that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for consideration and decency as we handle this devastating situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to humanely kill the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to confirm this is done properly,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

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

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility often experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to shut down until the habitats were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.