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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but significant monetary input,” the manager noted.

In a later update, the park verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were worsening. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager stated.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in buying the property and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option 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 specialized requirements.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, requesting a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The operator mentioned that among the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request kindness and decency as we manage this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department clarified that the choice to euthanise the big cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director commented that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and enclosure obligations.”

The park gained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it featured on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often ran into economic issues and staffing problems, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency instructed the facility to close until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.