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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media update, 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 “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are devastated,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable capital investment,” the director noted.

In a recent statement, the park announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in buying the facility and providing for the lions. Although the window is limited and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to explore this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were flooded with comments from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed desire that the facility would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The operator noted that amid the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to menacing and insulting comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for compassion and respect as we manage this devastating situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the choice to euthanise the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A senior official explained that humane killing had to be carried out humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be present to confirm this is done properly,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its animal care and containment obligations.”

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

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently ran into monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to shut down until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.