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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a online post, the facility indicated that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial financial backing,” the director noted.

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

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

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in buying the property and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is limited and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or ethical choice” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the park would rethink the plan to end their lives.

The director noted that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also received threatening and insulting comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking predicament.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to euthanise the big cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A deputy director commented that euthanasia had to be carried out humanely, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done correctly,” the official said. “We are assured that the establishment continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure obligations.”

The park attained minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

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

The facility frequently experienced economic issues and staffing problems, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the establishment to shut down until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.