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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media update, the facility indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial capital investment,” the manager added.

In a subsequent update, the facility announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

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

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is limited and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this option and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or compassionate alternative” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, begging for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the facility would rethink the decision to put them down.

The director stated that amid the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered menacing and abusive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we ask for consideration and respect as we navigate this tragic predicament.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the intention.

A deputy director explained that putting down had to be carried out ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative stated. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and containment requirements.”

The sanctuary attained some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently experienced financial trouble and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to cease operations until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.