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

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

In a social media post, the establishment clarified that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable financial backing,” the director noted.

In a recent statement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director said.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would review the plan to put them down.

The manager stated that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we manage this devastating predicament.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department clarified that the determination to humanely kill the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be performed compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and enclosure obligations.”

The facility gained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility often experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the park to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.