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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still uncertain, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

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

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might possibly continue as a big cat facility under different management, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but substantial financial backing,” the manager explained.

In a recent update, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director remarked.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is limited and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing our utmost to investigate this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical choice” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

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 former staff members expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.

The operator mentioned that among the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also received menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and decency as we handle this tragic situation.”

The landowner refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the choice to humanely kill the cats lay with the owners, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A senior official commented that euthanasia had to be performed humanely, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the representative said. “We are assured that the facility continues to meet its wildlife protection and enclosure obligations.”

The facility gained some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary frequently encountered monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency directed the establishment to close until the facilities were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.