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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media announcement, the facility 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 challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but significant monetary input,” the director added.

In a subsequent statement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in purchasing the establishment and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

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

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the facility would rethink the course of action to put them down.

The manager noted that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to menacing and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request compassion and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the determination to humanely kill the cats lay with the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are confident that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The facility attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary frequently ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to close until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.