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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media update, the facility indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are heartbroken,” said the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial monetary input,” the manager explained.

In a subsequent statement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the director remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or compassionate alternative” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would review the decision to end their lives.

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

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we ask for compassion and courtesy as we manage this devastating situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to humanely kill the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A deputy director stated that humane killing had to be carried out ethically, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The park gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

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

The facility often ran into monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.