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

The private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a online update, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 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,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial monetary input,” the operator noted.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the director stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

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

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The director stated that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and insulting messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the decision to euthanise the big cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A senior official commented that euthanasia had to be performed humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and security obligations.”

The facility gained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it featured on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

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

The facility frequently encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to cease operations until the habitats were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.