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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility explained 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 put down “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are heartbroken,” said the park’s director.

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

In a later update, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director remarked.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or compassionate alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with responses from the community, pleading for a second chance for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The manager mentioned that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and respect as we handle this devastating situation.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department indicated that the determination to humanely kill the cats lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A senior official stated that putting down had to be performed ethically, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to confirm this is done correctly,” the representative said. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The park gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park often experienced economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to close until the enclosures were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.