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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a online post, the establishment indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial monetary input,” the manager explained.

In a subsequent update, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from the community, pleading for a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would review the plan to euthanise them.

The manager mentioned that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we request kindness and courtesy as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to euthanise the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A senior official explained that putting down had to be carried out humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to verify this is done correctly,” the official noted. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to close until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.