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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to euthanise two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a online update, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are devastated,” said the facility’s manager.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable monetary input,” the operator explained.

In a subsequent statement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

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

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were filled with messages from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The manager stated that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that passions are strong, but we request consideration and courtesy as we manage this tragic situation.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to euthanise the lions was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director stated that humane killing had to be conducted humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to verify this is done properly,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The facility attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park often experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.