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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

In a online announcement, the establishment indicated 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 “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a future would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial capital investment,” the manager noted.

In a subsequent update, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were declining. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the manager 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 shown interest in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is tight and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical choice” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were flooded with messages from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The manager mentioned that amid the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we manage this tragic situation.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department stated that the decision to put down the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be performed humanely, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done correctly,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The sanctuary attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.