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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to humanely kill two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

In a online post, the facility explained that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are heartbroken,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable capital investment,” the operator explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were declining. These choices were made with deep care and deliberation,” the director stated.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the timeframe is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or humane choice” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with responses from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the park would reconsider the decision to put them down.

The operator noted that among the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also received menacing and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request consideration and respect as we manage this devastating circumstance.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department indicated that the determination to put down the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be carried out humanely, and in accordance with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to confirm this is done correctly,” the official noted. “We are assured that the establishment continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and security responsibilities.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility often encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.