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

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the 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 deeply saddened,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant financial backing,” the manager noted.

In a recent update, the park announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would review the course of action to put them down.

The director mentioned that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we ask for compassion and decency as we handle this tragic situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the determination to humanely kill the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

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

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and enclosure requirements.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary frequently experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to shut down until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.