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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was forced to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

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 seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are heartbroken,” stated the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant monetary input,” the director added.

In a subsequent update, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director stated.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the establishment and providing for the lions. Even though the deadline is limited and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing our utmost to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or compassionate choice” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, requesting a reprieve for the surviving lions, while former staff members expressed optimism that the sanctuary would rethink the plan to euthanise them.

The director stated that alongside the sympathetic words and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and insulting messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we request consideration and decency as we navigate this tragic predicament.”

The proprietor chose not to respond.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been informed of the intention.

A high-ranking officer stated that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson said. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it was shown on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the facility to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.