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

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the facility explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are heartbroken,” said the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial monetary input,” the director added.

In a subsequent statement, the sanctuary verified 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 incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the manager remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would review the decision to end their lives.

The manager stated that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and abusive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request consideration and decency as we handle this devastating situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the choice to euthanise the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and enclosure responsibilities.”

The park gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility frequently encountered financial trouble and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to close until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.