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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but significant financial backing,” the operator noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is short and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or compassionate choice” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The operator noted that amid the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered threatening and abusive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department indicated that the decision to humanely kill the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be performed compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The facility achieved a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park frequently experienced economic issues and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the establishment to close until the facilities were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.