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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

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

In a online post, the establishment explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but significant monetary input,” the director added.

In a subsequent announcement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager 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 buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or humane alternative” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the sanctuary would review the plan to euthanise them.

The operator noted that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered menacing and offensive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for compassion and respect as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The government department stated that the determination to euthanise the lions lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently ran into financial trouble and staffing problems, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the facility to close until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.