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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

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

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable monetary input,” the operator noted.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the manager said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. While the window is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or humane choice” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would review the decision to end their lives.

The operator mentioned that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for compassion and courtesy as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the choice to humanely kill the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A senior official explained that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be onsite to ensure this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security obligations.”

The sanctuary attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary frequently ran into financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.