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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

In a online post, the facility explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial monetary input,” the director explained.

In a recent announcement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with 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 manager stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or compassionate choice” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with responses from concerned citizens, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the sanctuary would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The manager stated that amid the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we ask for consideration and decency as we manage this heartbreaking predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department stated that the choice to euthanise the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director stated that humane killing had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment obligations.”

The park achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park often encountered financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to close until the habitats were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.