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

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

In a social media update, the facility clarified that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are deeply saddened,” commented the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial capital investment,” the operator added.

In a recent update, the park verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager said.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to investigate this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or compassionate alternative” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were flooded with comments from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The director noted that amid the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for consideration and courtesy as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the decision to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be carried out ethically, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be present to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary often experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.