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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media update, the establishment clarified 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 euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable capital investment,” the manager explained.

In a recent announcement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator said.

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 establishment and providing for the lions. While the window is short and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or compassionate choice” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from the community, requesting a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would rethink the course of action to end their lives.

The manager noted that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered menacing and offensive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we request kindness and courtesy as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to humanely kill the lions was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be performed humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be onsite to verify this is done properly,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and security obligations.”

The facility gained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly experienced economic issues and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.