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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the operator added.

In a recent statement, 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 not treatable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the manager stated.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or humane choice” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would review the course of action to euthanise them.

The manager stated that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered menacing and insulting comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we appeal for consideration and decency as we manage this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to humanely kill the big cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are confident that the operation continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and enclosure responsibilities.”

The facility attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary frequently ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.