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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are devastated,” commented the park’s director.

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but significant financial backing,” the manager noted.

In a subsequent announcement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the director stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The manager stated that among the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we navigate this tragic situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body indicated that the choice to put down the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done correctly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and enclosure obligations.”

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

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary repeatedly experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the establishment to shut down until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.