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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to put down two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

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

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial monetary input,” the manager added.

In a subsequent update, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager stated.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane option” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The director stated that alongside the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request consideration and courtesy as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the determination to put down the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A senior official stated that humane killing had to be performed ethically, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The park attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it featured on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary repeatedly ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the government agency ordered the park to close until the habitats were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.