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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

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

In a subsequent statement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director stated.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is limited and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with responses from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the park would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The manager mentioned that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered hostile and abusive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

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

A high-ranking officer stated that putting down had to be performed ethically, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the official said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and security requirements.”

The sanctuary gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility often experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to cease operations until the facilities were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.