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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media update, the establishment indicated that its owner 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 “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are devastated,” stated the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant monetary input,” the director explained.

In a later announcement, the sanctuary confirmed 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 untreatable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane alternative” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were filled with messages from the community, begging for a reprieve for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The operator mentioned that among the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to menacing and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the determination to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A senior official commented that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The park gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility often ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to close until the habitats were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.