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

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

In a online announcement, the facility 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 euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are heartbroken,” said the park’s director.

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

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

“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 profound consideration and consideration,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and providing for the lions. Even though the window is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The director noted that among the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we appeal for consideration and courtesy as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to euthanise the cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be performed compassionately, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park repeatedly experienced economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to close until the habitats were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.