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

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

In a online update, the establishment clarified that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but significant financial backing,” the operator explained.

In a recent statement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from the community, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would review the decision to end their lives.

The director noted that among the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request kindness and respect as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the determination to humanely kill the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are confident that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to cease operations until the facilities were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.