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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to put down two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but substantial financial backing,” the manager added.

In a later statement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the director remarked.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Although the timeframe is tight and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or humane alternative” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the facility would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The manager noted that among the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to hostile and abusive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We recognize that passions are strong, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we manage this tragic circumstance.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to humanely kill the big cats rested with the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that euthanasia had to be conducted compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are assured that the operation continues to meet its animal welfare and security requirements.”

The facility achieved a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a handler was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary often experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to close until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.