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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to put down two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

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

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

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are devastated,” said the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the operator explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were declining. These actions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the deadline is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were flooded with messages from the community, pleading for a second chance for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed desire that the park would review the plan to put them down.

The manager stated that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered threatening and insulting messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that passions are strong, but we ask for compassion and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking predicament.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the choice to put down the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A deputy director stated that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and enclosure responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park often ran into monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to shut down until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.