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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to humanely kill two of its senior lions, with the fate of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

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

In a social media update, the facility clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” stated the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but significant financial backing,” the manager noted.

In a recent update, the park verified that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A handful of parties have expressed interest in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is limited and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to explore this possibility and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The manager noted that alongside the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and insulting remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we appeal for compassion and decency as we navigate this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to put down the cats lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A deputy director commented that putting down had to be conducted ethically, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to confirm this is done correctly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park frequently encountered economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the park to close until the facilities were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.