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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged 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 closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media 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 euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are devastated,” said the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant financial backing,” the director added.

In a subsequent statement, the park confirmed 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 worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the director remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or ethical choice” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from the community, pleading for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The operator stated that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we navigate this devastating predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department stated that the determination to euthanise the big cats lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be conducted ethically, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and security responsibilities.”

The park attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to shut down until the enclosures were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.