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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to put down two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media announcement, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but significant financial backing,” the operator noted.

In a recent update, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator stated.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or humane option” due to their age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were flooded with comments from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the park would rethink the course of action to end their lives.

The director noted that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received threatening and insulting comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for kindness and decency as we manage this devastating circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

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

A deputy director stated that humane killing had to be conducted ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be onsite to confirm this is done properly,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.