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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to put down two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media announcement, the facility clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial monetary input,” the director added.

In a later statement, the facility announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in acquiring the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

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

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would rethink the plan to end their lives.

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

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

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department stated that the decision to humanely kill the big cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

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

“An compliance official will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and security obligations.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The facility often experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency instructed the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.