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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome 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 past weekend.

In a social media post, the facility 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 euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial financial backing,” the manager added.

In a subsequent statement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the director remarked.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from members of the public, begging for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the facility would rethink the course of action to put them down.

The director noted that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and insulting remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to euthanise the lions was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A deputy director commented that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and security obligations.”

The facility achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary frequently encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to shut down until the habitats were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.