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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to put down two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a online announcement, the facility explained 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 challenging decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant monetary input,” the operator noted.

In a later announcement, the facility announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were deteriorating. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in buying the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Although the window is tight and the situation remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to explore this possibility and hold onto hope.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would review the course of action to put them down.

The director mentioned that amid the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered threatening and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request kindness and courtesy as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department stated that the decision to euthanise the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be carried out humanely, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be onsite to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and containment requirements.”

The park gained minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility often encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the park to close until the habitats were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.