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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media post, the establishment clarified 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 put down “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable monetary input,” the director noted.

In a recent statement, the park verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the director said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from concerned citizens, begging for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the sanctuary would review the decision to put them down.

The manager mentioned that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to euthanise the lions was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be performed ethically, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and containment obligations.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.