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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was compelled to euthanise two of its older lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following financial difficulties.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

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

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

“While it could 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 operator explained.

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

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.

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

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and maintaining care for the lions. Although the deadline is short and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and maintain optimism.”

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

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from members of the public, pleading for a reprieve for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the decision to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that among the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered threatening and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for kindness and courtesy as we handle this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries stated that the decision to humanely kill the big cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been notified of the intention.

A senior official commented that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

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

The park attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly ran into problems. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency ordered the park to cease operations until the facilities were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.