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

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the establishment indicated 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 put down “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

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

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable capital investment,” the director added.

In a recent announcement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“Yesterday we said goodbye two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were declining. These choices were made with deep care and consideration,” the operator remarked.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in acquiring the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the timeframe is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to explore this option and hold onto hope.”

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

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from members of the public, begging for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to euthanise them.

The director noted that among the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received menacing and abusive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that passions are strong, but we ask for kindness and decency as we handle this heartbreaking situation.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department clarified that the choice to euthanise the cats rested with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official commented that humane killing had to be conducted humanely, and in line with wildlife regulations.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are assured that the facility continues to meet its wildlife protection and security requirements.”

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it was shown on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary often experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the government agency directed the facility to close until the enclosures were improved. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.