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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media update, the facility 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 euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are devastated,” commented the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable financial backing,” the manager noted.

In a later announcement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“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 profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or ethical alternative” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were flooded with comments from the community, pleading for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the decision to euthanise them.

The manager stated that among the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department stated that the choice to humanely kill the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to verify this is done properly,” the official said. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and enclosure obligations.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary often experienced financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.