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

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media update, 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 “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are heartbroken,” stated the park’s director.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable financial backing,” the director noted.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were declining. These actions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the director remarked.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Although the timeframe is short and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or compassionate alternative” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the facility would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The operator stated that amid the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and insulting comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We understand that passions are strong, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we manage this devastating circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the determination to euthanise the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be performed compassionately, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park frequently encountered economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to close until the enclosures were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.