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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to put down two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

In a online update, the facility indicated that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but significant monetary input,” the operator added.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the director said.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. Although the window is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were flooded with comments from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would review the decision to euthanise them.

The manager stated that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request compassion and courtesy as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department stated that the determination to put down the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director stated that euthanasia had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and enclosure obligations.”

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to shut down until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.