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

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a online 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 put down “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are heartbroken,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant monetary input,” the director explained.

In a recent statement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the director remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were filled with responses from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The manager noted that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and decency as we handle this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body clarified that the choice to euthanise the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be performed ethically, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

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

The facility attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to close until the habitats were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.