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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

In a online post, the establishment explained that its proprietor 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 “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could potentially continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial monetary input,” the operator noted.

In a subsequent announcement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the operator stated.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in acquiring the property and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is limited and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or ethical option” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The manager noted that amid the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered menacing and insulting remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we manage this devastating predicament.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the decision to euthanise the lions lay with the owners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A high-ranking officer explained that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are assured that the facility continues to meet its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility repeatedly ran into economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.