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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to put down two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online update, the facility indicated that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable capital investment,” the director noted.

In a later announcement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director stated.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the sanctuary would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The operator noted that amid the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department stated that the decision to humanely kill the lions was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure obligations.”

The facility attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary often experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to close until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.