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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 destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media announcement, the facility clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are devastated,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial financial backing,” the operator explained.

In a later update, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager said.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and providing for the lions. Even though the window is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or compassionate alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were flooded with responses from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The operator noted that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered threatening and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for compassion and respect as we manage this heartbreaking predicament.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to put down the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A high-ranking officer stated that putting down had to be conducted humanely, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and security responsibilities.”

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

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often encountered economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to cease operations until the habitats were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.