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

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

In a social media post, 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.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are devastated,” commented the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the operator explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director said.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The manager stated that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received menacing and abusive comments.

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

The landowner refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the determination to euthanise the lions lay with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the plan.

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

“An compliance official will be present to verify this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are assured that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to shut down until the habitats were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.