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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media announcement, the facility clarified 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 put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

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

In a later update, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator stated.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or compassionate choice” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would review the plan to put them down.

The manager noted that amid the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request kindness and decency as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to put down the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A deputy director commented that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure obligations.”

The park gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often encountered financial trouble and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.