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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the 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 euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“Although it might potentially continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable capital investment,” the manager noted.

In a later statement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These actions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the manager said.

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

“A handful of parties have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is short and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to explore this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with responses from concerned citizens, pleading for a second chance for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed desire that the facility would review the course of action to end their lives.

The director stated that amid the supportive comments and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that feelings are intense, but we request consideration and respect as we navigate this tragic predicament.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the choice to euthanise the lions lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A senior official commented that humane killing had to be conducted ethically, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary often ran into monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.