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

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media post, 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 put down “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable financial backing,” the operator added.

In a recent announcement, the park verified 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 not treatable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A several interested parties have shown interest in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or compassionate alternative” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by responses from the community, pleading for a second chance for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The director mentioned that alongside the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we appeal for consideration and decency as we manage this tragic situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the choice to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A high-ranking officer explained that humane killing had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its animal care and containment requirements.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to cease operations until the habitats were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.