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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the manager noted.

In a subsequent update, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything 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 group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from members of the public, begging for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The director stated that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to euthanise the lions was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be conducted humanely, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be onsite to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and enclosure requirements.”

The facility attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park repeatedly ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.