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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern city 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, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable monetary input,” the manager noted.

In a later announcement, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and providing for the lions. Even though the window is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the sanctuary would review the plan to end their lives.

The director stated that alongside the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered threatening and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we ask for compassion and courtesy as we handle this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department clarified that the determination to humanely kill the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

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

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done properly,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill 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 well-known lion tamer.

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

The sanctuary often experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.