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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to put down two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern city 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, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are heartbroken,” stated the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable monetary input,” the manager added.

In a recent update, the park announced 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 deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director said.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

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

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from the community, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the park would review the course of action to put them down.

The manager mentioned that amid the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and abusive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request consideration and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking predicament.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the decision to humanely kill the lions lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A deputy director commented that euthanasia had to be performed humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and containment responsibilities.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

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

The park repeatedly ran into monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.