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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

In a online announcement, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are heartbroken,” commented the park’s director.

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

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the director said.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or ethical choice” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from the community, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The director stated that amid the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we manage this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the decision to euthanise the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer explained that humane killing had to be conducted humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done properly,” the official stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to meet its animal care and security requirements.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park frequently ran into economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.