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

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

In a online post, the establishment explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but substantial monetary input,” the manager added.

In a recent statement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the director said.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. While the window is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or compassionate option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from concerned citizens, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The director mentioned that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and abusive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We understand that passions are strong, but we request kindness and decency as we navigate this tragic situation.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The government department clarified that the choice to humanely kill the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the plan.

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

“An compliance official will be on location to confirm this is done properly,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to meet its animal care and enclosure obligations.”

The facility attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park frequently experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to close until the enclosures were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.