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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility indicated that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial financial backing,” the operator added.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were worsening. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the director remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or ethical choice” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with responses from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would review the course of action to euthanise them.

The director noted that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to put down the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently ran into financial trouble and staffing problems, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to shut down until the habitats were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.