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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to put down two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still undecided, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media announcement, the establishment clarified 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 landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are deeply saddened,” commented the park’s director.

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

In a later announcement, the park 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 not treatable and were declining. These actions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the property and continuing to care for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or ethical option” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were filled with responses from members of the public, begging for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would rethink the course of action to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that amid the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received threatening and insulting messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for compassion and respect as we navigate this tragic situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries indicated that the decision to put down the big cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A high-ranking officer stated that humane killing had to be performed ethically, and in accordance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are confident that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The park gained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park often encountered financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to close until the habitats were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.