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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a online update, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are heartbroken,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial financial backing,” the manager noted.

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

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director said.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in acquiring the property and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is limited and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or ethical choice” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the park would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered threatening and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we appeal for consideration and decency as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the decision to humanely kill the lions was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be performed ethically, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the representative noted. “We are confident that the facility continues to meet its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

The park attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the park to cease operations until the facilities were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.