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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to put down two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online update, the facility clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are heartbroken,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant capital investment,” the operator added.

In a recent statement, the facility announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the manager remarked.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. Although the window is limited and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or compassionate option” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the facility would review the plan to euthanise them.

The operator stated that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and respect as we manage this tragic situation.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The government department indicated that the decision to euthanise the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

The park attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility often encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.