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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media post, the establishment clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are heartbroken,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but significant financial backing,” the director added.

In a subsequent announcement, the park verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the director said.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the deadline is short and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The operator stated that amid the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and offensive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and decency as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The government department clarified that the decision to put down the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and containment obligations.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility frequently ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to shut down until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.