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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a online announcement, the establishment explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable financial backing,” the director noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator stated.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical choice” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the plan to put them down.

The director noted that among the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and respect as we handle this devastating circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department stated that the choice to euthanise the cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that putting down had to be carried out humanely, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done properly,” the official stated. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

The park gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it appeared on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility often experienced economic issues and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to shut down until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.