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

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

In a online update, the facility explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are devastated,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant capital investment,” the manager explained.

In a recent announcement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

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

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. While the window is short and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

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

The park’s announcements were flooded with responses from the community, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the park would review the plan to end their lives.

The operator noted that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered menacing and abusive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that passions are strong, but we request consideration and decency as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department stated that the determination to humanely kill the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer stated that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to confirm this is done properly,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The facility gained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it featured on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park frequently encountered financial trouble and staffing problems, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.