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

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment 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 “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are heartbroken,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable monetary input,” the director added.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the deadline is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The manager stated that among the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and insulting messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we navigate this devastating circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the determination to humanely kill the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be carried out humanely, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson said. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and security responsibilities.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.