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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online post, the establishment explained 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 tough decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are devastated,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant monetary input,” the manager noted.

In a later update, the park verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the director said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have shown interest in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the park would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The operator mentioned that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the determination to humanely kill the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director stated that humane killing had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are confident that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary repeatedly ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the park to shut down until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.