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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media post, the facility explained 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 euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial monetary input,” the operator explained.

In a later announcement, 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 untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The manager noted that among the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and insulting remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we navigate this tragic predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the choice to euthanise the lions lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director commented that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the official noted. “We are confident that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and security obligations.”

The park gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility frequently encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to close until the enclosures were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.