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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other 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 announcement, the establishment explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” said the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable capital investment,” the operator added.

In a subsequent statement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were declining. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the director stated.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the deadline is limited and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or compassionate alternative” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were flooded with responses from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would review the course of action to end their lives.

The director noted that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we handle this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department stated that the decision to humanely kill the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A senior official stated that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and containment requirements.”

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

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility repeatedly encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.