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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a online announcement, the facility clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable monetary input,” the director explained.

In a recent announcement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the operator said.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or humane option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would rethink the plan to put them down.

The operator noted that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and insulting remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to humanely kill the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to verify this is done correctly,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility frequently experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.