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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility 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 put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are devastated,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable capital investment,” the operator explained.

In a recent announcement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director remarked.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A few individuals have shown interest in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the deadline is short and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were filled with messages from members of the public, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The director mentioned that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we request consideration and decency as we handle this devastating situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department stated that the choice to euthanise the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A senior official explained that humane killing had to be performed ethically, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

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

The park repeatedly ran into monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.