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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media announcement, the establishment indicated 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 put down “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are heartbroken,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial capital investment,” the manager explained.

In a later statement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with responses from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The director noted that among the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request compassion and courtesy as we manage this devastating predicament.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to euthanise the cats lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

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

“An compliance official will be present to verify this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are confident that the operation continues to meet its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

The park attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility often experienced financial trouble and staffing problems, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to shut down until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.