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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media post, the facility indicated 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 euthanised “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant monetary input,” the manager noted.

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

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would review the decision to end their lives.

The manager noted that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and insulting remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we ask for kindness and decency as we navigate this devastating predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the choice to euthanise the big cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its wildlife protection and security requirements.”

The park attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility often experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.