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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to put down two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a online post, the facility explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are heartbroken,” said the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the manager added.

In a subsequent announcement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These choices were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the manager stated.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or compassionate alternative” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the plan to put them down.

The manager noted that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we navigate this tragic predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to euthanise the big cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be conducted humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to meet its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park repeatedly ran into monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to close until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.