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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its older lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

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

In a social media announcement, the establishment indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant monetary input,” the director added.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director remarked.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “viable or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would rethink the course of action to end their lives.

The operator noted that among the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered menacing and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we navigate this devastating situation.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The government department clarified that the choice to put down the cats rested with the landowners, 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 animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to confirm this is done properly,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early part of the century when it featured on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary repeatedly experienced economic issues and staffing problems, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the facility to shut down until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.