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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are deeply saddened,” commented the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but significant monetary input,” the manager added.

In a later update, 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 not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the establishment and providing for the lions. Although the timeframe is short and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or humane option” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from the community, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would review the decision to euthanise them.

The director stated that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and offensive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the determination to humanely kill the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the plan.

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

“An compliance official will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson noted. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure requirements.”

The facility attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary repeatedly encountered financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the park to shut down until the habitats were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.