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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to put down two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a online announcement, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the operator noted.

In a subsequent announcement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator said.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were filled with messages from the community, pleading for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the course of action to euthanise them.

The operator mentioned that among the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received menacing and insulting comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we navigate this tragic situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to humanely kill the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A deputy director commented that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park often encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to shut down until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.