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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a online post, the establishment clarified that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” commented the park’s director.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant financial backing,” the manager explained.

In a later update, the park confirmed 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 profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director remarked.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or ethical alternative” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by responses from the community, pleading for a second chance for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The operator noted that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to menacing and abusive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request consideration and decency as we manage this devastating situation.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to euthanise the lions was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

The park attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the establishment to close until the habitats were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.