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

The private wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online post, the facility clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“While it could potentially continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable capital investment,” the director explained.

In a later statement, the park verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were worsening. These choices were made with utmost compassion and consideration,” the manager stated.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the window is limited and the situation remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane option” due to their elderly status, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The park’s announcements were filled with comments from members of the public, begging for a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the park would review the decision to euthanise them.

The operator mentioned that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to menacing and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we appeal for kindness and decency as we manage this tragic situation.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to humanely kill the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

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

“An regulatory officer will be on location to ensure this is done properly,” the representative stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to fulfill its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was mauled to death by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility frequently ran into economic issues and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries ordered the park to shut down until the habitats were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.