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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

In a online post, the facility explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are heartbroken,” said the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the director noted.

In a later announcement, the park verified 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 declining. These actions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is limited and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or humane alternative” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The manager noted that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and insulting remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we handle this tragic predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the choice to put down the cats rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be conducted humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An compliance official will be onsite to verify this is done properly,” the representative noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

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

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary repeatedly encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to cease operations until the habitats were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.