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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment clarified that its owner 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 “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” stated the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial capital investment,” the director explained.

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

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the director said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would rethink the course of action to put them down.

The manager noted that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request compassion and courtesy as we navigate this tragic situation.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to euthanise the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to meet its animal care and security requirements.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

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

The sanctuary often encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.