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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its older lions, with the fate of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media post, the facility explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are devastated,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial capital investment,” the director noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were declining. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the director said.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or ethical choice” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed hope that the sanctuary would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The director stated that amid the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and decency as we navigate this devastating predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the decision to euthanise the cats lay with the owners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently ran into economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to cease operations until the facilities were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.