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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to put down two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, the facility indicated that its proprietor 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.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable capital investment,” the operator explained.

In a later announcement, the park verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were worsening. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in buying the facility and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane option” due to their age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The director noted that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we manage this devastating situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

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

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be performed humanely, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to meet its wildlife protection and enclosure obligations.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often encountered financial trouble and staffing problems, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to shut down until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.