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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to put down two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media 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 put down “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are deeply saddened,” stated the park’s director.

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable monetary input,” the director noted.

In a recent announcement, the sanctuary announced 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 deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A several interested parties have shown interest in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is short and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

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

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from concerned citizens, begging for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and respect as we navigate this tragic predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department stated that the decision to put down the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A senior official stated that humane killing had to be conducted ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The facility achieved a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently experienced financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to close until the facilities were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.