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

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the facility clarified 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 put down “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are heartbroken,” said the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the manager added.

In a later statement, the facility announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the director said.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or ethical choice” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the park would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The manager stated that among the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered threatening and abusive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we navigate this tragic predicament.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to euthanise the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A deputy director stated that humane killing had to be performed compassionately, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its animal care and security obligations.”

The sanctuary achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park often encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.