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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a online update, the facility clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial financial backing,” the operator explained.

In a subsequent update, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the operator said.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have shown interest in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from the community, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the sanctuary would review the course of action to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to menacing and offensive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request compassion and respect as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the choice to put down the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that humane killing had to be performed compassionately, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to confirm this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment requirements.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

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

The sanctuary repeatedly experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the establishment to close until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.