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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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

In a social media announcement, the facility clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The staff and I are heartbroken,” commented 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 considerable capital investment,” the director explained.

In a recent update, the sanctuary verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the director stated.

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

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. While the deadline is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from members of the public, requesting a reprieve for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The manager noted that among the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and abusive remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request compassion and respect as we navigate this tragic situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to humanely kill the cats lay with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment obligations.”

The facility gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary repeatedly ran into economic issues and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency instructed the park to close until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.