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

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

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

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are devastated,” said the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial capital investment,” the director noted.

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

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

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have shown interest in purchasing the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is limited and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate alternative” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would review the plan to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and decency as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department clarified that the choice to put down the cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and containment obligations.”

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

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park frequently encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.