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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

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

In a online update, the establishment 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 “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are devastated,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but significant capital investment,” the operator added.

In a recent statement, the park verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the operator said.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or compassionate option” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The manager noted that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we manage this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the choice to euthanise the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done properly,” the representative stated. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary gained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary often experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to shut down until the enclosures were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.