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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to put down two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are heartbroken,” commented the park’s director.

“While it could potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial monetary input,” the operator noted.

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

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and deliberation,” the director said.

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

“A few individuals have shown interest in buying the facility and providing for the lions. While the window is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or compassionate alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were flooded with responses from the community, begging for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the plan to end their lives.

The operator stated that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and offensive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and respect as we manage this devastating predicament.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A high-ranking officer stated that humane killing had to be performed compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal welfare and enclosure requirements.”

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

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary frequently ran into economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to shut down until the habitats were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.