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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a online update, the facility explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” commented the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but significant capital investment,” the operator explained.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the manager stated.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and hold onto hope.”

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

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed desire that the sanctuary would review the plan to end their lives.

The manager stated that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also been subjected to hostile and insulting comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for compassion and courtesy as we navigate this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department indicated that the choice to put down the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A deputy director commented that euthanasia had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be present to verify this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and enclosure obligations.”

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

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.