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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to put down two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media post, the facility clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are deeply saddened,” commented the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the manager added.

In a subsequent statement, the facility announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the manager said.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or compassionate alternative” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the facility would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The manager noted that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered menacing and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and respect as we handle this tragic situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department stated that the determination to euthanise the big cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly encountered financial trouble and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to shut down until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.