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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to euthanise two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a online update, the facility clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are heartbroken,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial monetary input,” the operator added.

In a recent statement, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

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

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

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

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed desire that the facility would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The operator stated that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and abusive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that passions are strong, but we request compassion and decency as we manage this heartbreaking predicament.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The government department clarified that the decision to put down the cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

The park achieved a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility frequently experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to close until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.