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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a online update, the establishment explained 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 put down “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are heartbroken,” stated the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the manager explained.

In a later statement, the park announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the operator stated.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in acquiring the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane option” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the sanctuary would review the plan to euthanise them.

The operator stated that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request consideration and decency as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department stated that the choice to euthanise the 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 performed ethically, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to confirm this is done correctly,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

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

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency instructed the establishment to close until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.