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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

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

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are devastated,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable monetary input,” the operator added.

In a recent update, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the manager said.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in purchasing the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

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

The facility’s posts were flooded with comments from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would review the decision to put them down.

The operator stated that alongside the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we ask for consideration and decency as we manage this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to put down the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A high-ranking officer stated that humane killing had to be conducted humanely, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and containment responsibilities.”

The facility gained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it appeared on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to close until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.