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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

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

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are heartbroken,” said the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable capital investment,” the operator noted.

In a subsequent update, the facility announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were declining. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the director said.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or humane alternative” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were filled with messages from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that alongside the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered threatening and insulting remarks.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we request consideration and courtesy as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to euthanise the lions rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A deputy director explained that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done properly,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to satisfy its animal care and containment responsibilities.”

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a big cat while performing maintenance.

The sanctuary often encountered financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the park to close until the enclosures were modernized. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.