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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to humanely kill two of its senior 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 shut down over the past weekend.

In a online post, the facility clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

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

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would review the decision to euthanise them.

The director stated that alongside the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered threatening and offensive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we ask for compassion and respect as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to humanely kill the big cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be carried out humanely, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to confirm this is done correctly,” the spokesperson said. “We are confident that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The park frequently experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the facility to close until the facilities were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.