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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to put down two of its elderly lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a online post, the establishment 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 landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are devastated,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial financial backing,” the operator explained.

In a later update, the facility announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled 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 deliberation,” the director said.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. While the window is limited and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were flooded with responses from concerned citizens, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The director noted that alongside the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the decision to euthanise the lions lay with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to confirm this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The facility attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often encountered monetary difficulties and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.