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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a online post, the establishment explained 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 put down “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are heartbroken,” stated the sanctuary’s operator.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the property but significant capital investment,” the director explained.

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

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager remarked.

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

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or humane choice” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were flooded with responses from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the facility would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The manager noted that amid the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also encountered threatening and insulting comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body indicated that the choice to humanely kill the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to confirm this is done properly,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to satisfy its wildlife protection and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it appeared on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often experienced monetary difficulties and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to cease operations until the habitats were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.