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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment indicated that its proprietor 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 difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but significant financial backing,” the manager noted.

In a later announcement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were declining. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be euthanised.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is limited and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

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

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed desire that the sanctuary would review the plan to end their lives.

The director mentioned that alongside the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and courtesy as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the determination to put down the cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be present to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

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

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park repeatedly ran into economic issues and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.