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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to put down two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media announcement, the facility clarified that its proprietor 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 challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are heartbroken,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant capital investment,” the director added.

In a subsequent announcement, the park confirmed 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 not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the operator said.

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

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is tight and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with comments from the community, pleading for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would review the plan to end their lives.

The director stated that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and courtesy as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department stated that the decision to put down the big cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director stated that humane killing had to be conducted ethically, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be present to verify this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are confident that the facility continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and enclosure responsibilities.”

The park gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The park often encountered financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to close until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.