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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to put down two of its older lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

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

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but significant capital investment,” the director added.

In a subsequent statement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager stated.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to explore this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate option” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from the community, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The director noted that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and abusive remarks.

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

The proprietor declined to comment.

The government department stated that the choice to euthanise the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A senior official explained that putting down had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security obligations.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park often experienced economic issues and staffing problems, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.