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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but significant financial backing,” the manager noted.

In a recent update, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were worsening. These actions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the operator remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in purchasing the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with messages from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The manager stated that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered menacing and abusive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and decency as we handle this devastating situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to humanely kill the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be conducted humanely, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative noted. “We are confident that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary frequently experienced economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the facility to shut down until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.