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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media post, the facility clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are devastated,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial monetary input,” the operator added.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or compassionate alternative” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with messages from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the course of action to put them down.

The director mentioned that alongside the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also received menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we request compassion and respect as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the choice to euthanise the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

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

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and security responsibilities.”

The facility gained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility often encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.