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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online announcement, the establishment explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are devastated,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial monetary input,” the director noted.

In a later statement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the manager stated.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or humane option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with messages from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The manager stated that among the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request consideration and courtesy as we handle this tragic situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to humanely kill the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure obligations.”

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

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

The facility repeatedly ran into economic issues and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency instructed the establishment to close until the facilities were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.