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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant monetary input,” the operator added.

In a subsequent statement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is short and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were filled with responses from concerned citizens, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The manager stated that among the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered menacing and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to humanely kill the lions lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to verify this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and containment obligations.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

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

The facility often ran into financial trouble and employment issues, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to close until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.