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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media post, the establishment indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are heartbroken,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable financial backing,” the operator explained.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is tight and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The manager noted that alongside the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and abusive comments.

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

The landowner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to humanely kill the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

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

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done properly,” the representative stated. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The park attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary repeatedly experienced financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.