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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a online post, the facility explained that its proprietor had put the property 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 landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are heartbroken,” said the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable monetary input,” the operator noted.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the director remarked.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or compassionate alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the plan to end their lives.

The director noted that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We understand that passions are strong, but we request consideration and courtesy as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department stated that the determination to euthanise the big cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A deputy director stated that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the representative noted. “We are confident that the facility continues to meet its animal care and containment obligations.”

The facility attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

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

The park repeatedly ran into financial trouble and staffing problems, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to close until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.