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

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

In a social media update, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial capital investment,” the manager noted.

In a later update, the park confirmed 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 untreatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director remarked.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is short and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical alternative” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would rethink the course of action to put them down.

The director stated that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and abusive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request kindness and respect as we manage this devastating circumstance.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the determination to humanely kill the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently ran into financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to shut down until the facilities were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.