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

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

In a social media announcement, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable capital investment,” the manager noted.

In a later update, the facility announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were declining. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the manager said.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

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 demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from the community, begging for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The operator stated that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and respect as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body clarified that the determination to euthanise the cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A senior official explained that humane killing had to be conducted ethically, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done properly,” the official said. “We are confident that the facility continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and enclosure responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility often ran into economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.