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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media post, the establishment indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are heartbroken,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the manager explained.

In a recent statement, the facility verified 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 worsening. These decisions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the plan to put them down.

The manager noted that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we manage this heartbreaking predicament.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to humanely kill the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be conducted ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently ran into economic issues and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.