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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online announcement, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are devastated,” said the facility’s manager.

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the director noted.

In a recent update, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager stated.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the facility would review the decision to put them down.

The director noted that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to humanely kill the big cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that putting down had to be conducted ethically, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be onsite to confirm this is done correctly,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The park achieved a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it featured on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park frequently ran into economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.