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

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are heartbroken,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial monetary input,” the operator noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator said.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were flooded with responses from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the sanctuary would review the plan to put them down.

The director stated that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we request kindness and respect as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department indicated that the decision to put down the cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The sanctuary attained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it appeared on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park frequently encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the establishment to close until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.