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

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei shut down 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, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but significant financial backing,” the manager added.

In a subsequent announcement, the park verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager said.

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

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

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the park would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The operator stated that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered menacing and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and respect as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department stated that the decision to humanely kill the big cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

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

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are confident that the operation continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The park achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility often encountered financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to shut down until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.