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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

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

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” stated the park’s director.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the manager added.

In a subsequent update, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

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

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the park would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request compassion and respect as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the choice to put down the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A deputy director commented that euthanasia had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility often ran into monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to close until the facilities were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.