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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media update, the facility clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are heartbroken,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but significant financial backing,” the manager explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director stated.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from the community, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would review the course of action to end their lives.

The director stated that amid the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and abusive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we navigate this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department clarified that the determination to euthanise the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer explained that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to meet its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility frequently encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to shut down until the facilities were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.