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

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media post, the facility explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are heartbroken,” commented the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant financial backing,” the director added.

In a subsequent statement, 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 serious health conditions that were untreatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and thoughtfulness,” the manager stated.

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

“A several interested parties have shown interest in acquiring the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or ethical option” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would review the decision to end their lives.

The operator noted that alongside the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also received hostile and offensive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request compassion and courtesy as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The regulatory body clarified that the determination to put down the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official stated that putting down had to be conducted humanely, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An compliance official will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and enclosure requirements.”

The facility attained a degree of notoriety 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 fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility repeatedly encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.