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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was forced to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are heartbroken,” said the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable financial backing,” the director explained.

In a recent update, the facility verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would rethink the decision to put them down.

The operator stated that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to threatening and insulting comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and courtesy as we handle this tragic situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department clarified that the decision to euthanise the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A senior official commented that humane killing had to be conducted ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The park attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it appeared on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.