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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a online post, the establishment explained 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 tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are devastated,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable monetary input,” the manager explained.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were worsening. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director said.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would review the course of action to euthanise them.

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

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and decency as we navigate this devastating circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the choice to humanely kill the lions was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director commented that putting down had to be conducted ethically, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to confirm this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The facility attained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.