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

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are deeply saddened,” stated the facility’s manager.

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial capital investment,” the manager noted.

In a recent update, the sanctuary 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 not treatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical choice” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from the community, requesting a reprieve for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The operator noted that among the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and abusive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and courtesy as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to euthanise the big cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be performed humanely, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park often encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to shut down until the habitats were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.