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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online post, the establishment indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial monetary input,” the operator explained.

In a later statement, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director said.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is limited and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or ethical choice” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The manager noted that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we ask for consideration and respect as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The government department stated that the determination to humanely kill the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be performed humanely, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and containment obligations.”

The park gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it appeared on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility often encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.