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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to put down two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

In a online post, the facility indicated that its owner 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 “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but significant monetary input,” the director added.

In a recent update, the park announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the deadline is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate option” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were flooded with responses from the community, requesting a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the sanctuary would review the course of action to end their lives.

The director mentioned that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we ask for compassion and decency as we manage this tragic situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the choice to put down the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be onsite to verify this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are confident that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park frequently experienced economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.