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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to put down two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media announcement, the establishment explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the manager noted.

In a later statement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in buying the facility and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or humane option” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with responses from the community, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the course of action to put them down.

The operator mentioned that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we ask for kindness and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the representative noted. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary often encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the facility to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.