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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a online update, the establishment clarified that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are heartbroken,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the director noted.

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

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager stated.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to explore this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would rethink the plan to put them down.

The director stated that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and offensive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request consideration and respect as we manage this tragic situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the decision to euthanise the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure obligations.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary frequently ran into monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.