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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the fate of the remaining 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 online post, the establishment clarified 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 euthanised “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable capital investment,” the director noted.

In a recent announcement, the facility announced 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 not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the facility and providing for the lions. Even though the window is short and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or ethical alternative” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from the community, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The operator mentioned that alongside the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we ask for compassion and courtesy as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department clarified that the determination to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be conducted humanely, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to verify this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The park achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary repeatedly experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.