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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

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

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are devastated,” said the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable financial backing,” the director noted.

In a later statement, the facility announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These actions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the operator stated.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with comments from the community, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the park would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The operator noted that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received menacing and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request kindness and decency as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to euthanise the cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be carried out humanely, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment responsibilities.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

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

The sanctuary frequently experienced financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to shut down until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.