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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

In a online update, the establishment clarified that its owner had listed the land 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 big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the operator noted.

In a later announcement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“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 operator remarked.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in buying the property and providing for the lions. While the deadline is short and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with comments from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The director noted that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for kindness and respect as we manage this devastating circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the determination to euthanise the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to confirm this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility repeatedly experienced economic issues and staffing problems, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the facility to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.