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

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

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

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

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable capital investment,” the operator noted.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were declining. These actions were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the operator remarked.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or humane choice” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The manager mentioned that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to threatening and insulting comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We understand that passions are strong, but we request kindness and decency as we handle this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the determination to euthanise the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A high-ranking officer stated that euthanasia had to be performed compassionately, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The park attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The facility often encountered financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the establishment to shut down until the facilities were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.