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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media post, the facility explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are devastated,” stated the facility’s manager.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant capital investment,” the director added.

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

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These actions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the operator said.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane choice” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The manager mentioned that among the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered hostile and offensive remarks.

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

The proprietor declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the choice to put down the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park repeatedly encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the establishment to close until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.