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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial monetary input,” the director noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the manager stated.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. Although the window is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the facility would review the decision to put them down.

The director noted that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to menacing and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we appeal for kindness and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the choice to humanely kill the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director stated that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility often ran into financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to shut down until the habitats were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.