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

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

In a online announcement, the facility clarified that its proprietor had listed the land 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 deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable capital investment,” the director added.

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

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and keep hope alive.”

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

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would review the plan to euthanise them.

The operator mentioned that among the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to put down the cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A senior official commented that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are confident that the facility continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and security responsibilities.”

The park attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary frequently encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to close until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.