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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media update, the facility clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are devastated,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable monetary input,” the operator explained.

In a recent statement, the facility verified 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 declining. These actions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have shown interest in purchasing the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is short and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or humane choice” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The director stated that among the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to menacing and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request consideration and courtesy as we handle this devastating circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to euthanise the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be conducted humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary repeatedly encountered financial trouble and staffing problems, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to close until the enclosures were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.