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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media update, the facility clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable capital investment,” the manager added.

In a recent statement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were declining. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director stated.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would review the plan to euthanise them.

The manager stated that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and abusive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that passions are strong, but we request kindness and respect as we manage this tragic situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to humanely kill the cats lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be performed ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be onsite to confirm this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and security obligations.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

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

The facility frequently ran into monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to close until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.